Torquay United put a disastrous start to last season behind them and were eventually crowned National League South champions under Gary Johnson after finishing ten point ahead of runners-up Woking.
Now with just two weeks until it all starts again, which side are the favourites to bag the top prize this season?
Havant & Waterlooville
Last Season – 22nd National League & Relegated | Outright Odds – 4/1
Ex-Sutton United boss Paul Doswell cut short his sabbatical to take the reigns at West Leigh Park following the departure of Lee Bradbury.
And it’s no surprise to see why plenty of people fancy the Hawks for a title tilt after their intriguing summer business.
Dean Beckwith, Roarie Deacon, Nicky Bailey and goalkeeper Ross Worner all replicated Doswell’s switch from Sutton United to Havant & Waterlooville. They were soon followed by experienced Ebbsfleet United trio Danny Kedwell, Sam Magri and Andy Drury.
Although the current crop might look different to those that won the National League South in 2018, fans will be hoping Doswell can inspire a similar season in Hampshire.
Billericay Town
Last Season – 8th National League South | Outright Odds – 4/1
A tumultuous first-ever season at Step Three didn’t end as planned for fans of Essex-based Billericay last time out.
After sacking boss Harry Wheeler, only to appoint him again later on in the season, things seem to have settled down at the Steel Team Stadium just at the right time.
Owner Glenn Tamplin has kept to his word to back Wheeler and assistant Jamie O’Hara as the club announced an impressive triple coup this week with the signings of Gaving Gunning, Doug Loft and Craig Robson.
Add that to the impressive Jake Robinson’s inevitable goals and things could get interesting at the top this season.
Chelmsford City
Last Season – 4th National League South | Outright Odds – 8/1
After a fine season, Rod Stringer’s side came unstuck in their play-off semi-final against Welling United.
Perhaps one of the biggest blows will be the departure of 25-goal striker Rhys Murphy after he signed a deal with recently relegated Yeovil Town in the National League. The Clarets will be hoping ex-Norwich City striker Jamal Lowe can fill in the cracks.
In Rod Stringer, the club have someone who knows what it takes to win the division having previously done so with Braintree Town in 2011.
PROPER FOOTBALL 