Following a tough midweek fixture against Championship side Portsmouth, Neal Ardley and Simon Bassey will look to bounce back in a pre-season fixture against Eltham-based side Cray Valley, who currently play in the Isthmian League Premier Division.

After a difficult challenge against high-level opposition in which all players and trialists got a run out, the Cards will be looking to get back to winning ways, utilising Tuesday’s experience whilst physically preparing for the long National League season ahead.

The forecast is predicting showers, which will be different conditions from those the Cards have faced so far this pre-season. The Cards could use the fast-paced experience against Pompey on Tuesday to build on the success they had against the Met Police just a week ago.

Opposition Watch

Cray Valley had a strong season last season, finishing 4th in the Isthmian League Premier Division, earning themselves a playoff spot. Their playoff semi-final was a high-scoring affair in which Cray Valley raced into a 2-0 lead, by Dartford completed a magical comeback to condemn the Cards’ opponents to another season in Step 3.

Cray Valley have worked hard over the summer to improve their squad depth making key signings in their forward positions with them welcoming Ibby Akanbi and Luke Holness whilst focusing on their creativity through the signing of Aveley winger Kenny Aileru. The added squad depth will have supporters feeling optimistic about playoff chances in their upcoming season which could prove them to be a strong test for the Cards come Saturday.

Like the Cards, Cray Valley have played two preseason fixtures so far. They will be in high spirits with two wins from two against Epsom and Ewell and Three Bridges, which turned out to be a high-scoring affair last Saturday. The Miller’s manager Steve McKimm will without a doubt be looking to trouble Ardley and the Cards this weekend.

Around the Ground

The fixture is a 3 o’clock kick-off.

Tickets are available here. Prices are as follows:

Adults + Concessions (65+ and 16/17) – £6

Under 16’s – Free

Those wishing to buy from the Turnstile will receive Matchday admission meaning their ticket will be priced at £7.

Parking spaces are available at the ground with an 80-car capacity which operates on a first-come come first serve basis, there are no street parking restrictions around the ground.

The Arctic Stadium comes with a strong policy against alcohol, with no alcohol to be brought into the ground, with them being prepared to confiscate it at the gate. Additionally, all musical instruments are banned from entering the ground.

One to Watch

Last season’s fans and managers’ player of the season, Barney Williams will surely make life difficult for the Cards. The defensive rock played 48 games last season also managing to grab himself 3 goals. Williams will be sure to anchor the Millers backline and could make it a tough day for the Woking attack.