And so it begins…
Rejoice fellow Hamlet supporters, the start of the season is nigh.
At the close of the 14/15 season a number of familiar faces moved on with a couple of particularly noticeable departures. Young Xavier Vidal, the man who gained his place in Hamlet folk-law with the goal that sealed promotion, has stepped up a level to join Welling United. There was also sad news with fans favourite Harry Ottaway choosing to take a break from football to focus on his day job. Harry has struggled to regain full fitness following a shocking break to his leg and those associated with the club will no doubt wish him all the best for the future. The replacements though have been highly impressive. Dynamic midfielder Danny Waldren has joined from Bromley after they were promoted to the Conference National. The goal scoring midfielder who enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the Bromley supporters, was reportidly concerned about the amount of travelling of playing in the national leagues, at a level were he wasn’t guaranteed the level of playing time he’s accustomed to. Bromley’s loss looks to be Hamlet’s gain after a number of eye catching pre-season performances. Steve Sutherland, the Met Police defender who last season turned in several strong performances against Hamlet has also joined and adds to an impressive list of centre halves following the departure of last seasons captain Terrell Forbes. At the time of writing several trialist strikers have turned in some impressive friendly performances. But the confirmed signings that Hamlet will be hoping can grab some goals are Jacob Erskine and former Millwall forward Charlie Penny.
Pre-season has seen impressive performances against the likes of Peterborough, Dagenham and Charlton and after another strong season last term, supporters will feel confident that the team can kick on once again and challenge for promotion.
This years season begins with a home game on Saturday 8th August against Canvey Island. Later in the month Hamlet take on Staines Town on 22nd and Grays Athletic on 29th. Please check – www.pitchero.com/clubs/dulwichhamlet, for further details and information on all of Hamlet’s fixtures this season.
Dulwich Hamlet Supporters’ Trust
@dhstorg
This feature first appeared in the August 2015 issue of SE22 magazine.