Dial return to competitive action today (8 Aug), this time in the Southern Combination Football League, when we host East Preston at Redding Way. 3pm k.o.

Following the club's fourth promotion in five years, Dial boss Steve Brown is acutely aware that the spotlight will be on him and his players now they're part of the National League System.

And Brown has wasted no time strengthening his squad on-and-of-the-field with the appointment of Jimmy Norman to the role of Assistant Player Manager in midweek. Norman will work alongside coaches Andy Rider and Jake Kennett, in addition to onboarding physiotherapist Sandy Xaferri as part of a five-strong football management team.

Our visitors will make the 45-mile trip from the south coast, in-between Bognor Regis and Shoreham by Sea, to be with us today. They're one of eight clubs from West Sussex from a total of 20 clubs in the League which is splayed across four counties, with Dial being the most northernly based club.

Under the managerial guidance of former Guildford City manager Kevin Rayner since 2024, East Preston, nicknamed the EP, finished 12th and 14th respectively the past two seasons after dropping out of the Southern Combination Football League Premier Division in 2022.

While Brown doesn't confesses to knowing much about today's opponents, he is keen that Dial get off to a good start after the club moved from Always Lane (Chertsey Town) to Redding Way (Knaphill) in the summer as part of a new three-year groundshare agreement.

With competition for places at a premium, Brown is expected to throw a league debut to new signings Daniel Wanyonyl and Joseph Apeni, with Joe Atkin, Tosin Oyebola, Joshua Adjei and Jeremiah Abbey also expected to make the squad having made the switch to Redding Way in the summer.

Meanwhile, Adam Aziz is also likely to play a key role this season alongside George Frith after the playmaker re-joined The Dial following a brief stint with Horley Town last season. Elsewhere, George Lawrence has re-committed himself to the club after signing for Hersham last season to increase his game time.

For supporters and football enthusiasts travelling to Brookwood Country Park Football Ground (Redding Way) today, the nearest rail station is Brookwood, which is a c. 25 to 30-minute walk to the ground through Brookwood Country Park. You can plan your journey here.

Brookwood Country Park offers free parking for up to approximately 70 vehicles adjacent to the football pavilion. Further free parking is available at the nearby Lansbury Business Estate (GU21 2EP) and the Vyne Field Car Park (GU21 2DG). Refrain from parking in the residential areas of Strathcona Gardens, which is a parking controlled area.

Admission costs have been held for the third season. For more information, please click here.

A limited edition matchday programme will be available at the turnstile for just £2.

To view Dial's forthcoming fixtures and pre-season results, click here.

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