The Seagulls completed their pre-season programme by beating National League side Yeovil Town 1-0 at the Optima Stadium last Saturday, an impressive performance to take into the new league campaign. Luke Coulson scored the only goal from the penalty spot in the second-half.

Coulson scored 23 goals last season, with three of those coming in the corresponding fixture at Hornchurch Stadium as recently as March, in what was an incredible performance from the leading goalscorer in the 4-2 victory in Essex.

After firing The Seagulls into a 1-0 lead with a fantastic 25-yard effort, Coulson then provided an exquisite assist for Reuben Reid to make it two. Coulson then got his second from the penalty spot early in the second-half, before saving his best for last with virtually the last kick of the game, when he scored from his own penalty area. It was an absolutely remarkable goal to complete his treble in what proved to be a pulsating encounter.

The Urchins posed a good attacking threat in both games with The Seagulls last season, not surprising with the likes of Darren McQueen and Angelo Balanta in their ranks. Manager Daryl McMahon has added to his squad this summer with some shrewd signings with Myles Weston and Charlie Ruff, amongst others, joining from Bromley and Chelmsford respectively.

McMahon has also dipped into the loan market with the signing of Wolves goalkeeper, Arthur Nasta. Nasta spent a short spell with Weston three years ago, and came on as a substitute in pre-season friendly victories at Brimscombe & Thrupp and Clevedon Town in July 2022.

This isn’t the first time The Seagulls and The Urchins have played each other on the first day of the season. Back in August 2004, the two sides fought out a 0-0 draw in what was the first ever season of Conference South football, as well as the first-ever league fixture played at Weston’s new Woodspring Stadium home.

While it finished scoreless that day, we can expect some goals in Essex for this season’s curtain-raiser, particularly if last season’s entertainment is anything to go by.

Hornchurch Football Club, Hornchurch Stadium, Bridge Avenue, Upminster, RM14 2LX

Advance tickets for the match can be purchased HERE

Matchday Information for travelling supporters can be found HERE

We would like to wish all of our travelling supporters a safe journey to Hornchurch and back, and we hope that you enjoy the match.