Opposition Preview: Hungerford Town

City travel to Bulpit Lane on Tuesday night for their first away game of the season as they take on Hungerford.

Fresh off a hard-fought 4-2 win over Gosport on Saturday, Daf Williams’ troops will be looking to get themselves another three points early on in the season.

Credit: Emilyrphotography

That won’t be an easy feat however, with Hungerford bringing a stern challenge certain to test a new look City side.

Despite a 1-0 loss at Farnham in their first outing of the new season, the Crusaders boasted a strong home record last year, something that helped them fly up the table in the second half of the campaign.

You can then look to some of their new signings, such as Harry Williams, Ty Duffus and Zack Kotwica, who will all be eager to perform against their former side.

Credit: Jamie Brain

Captain Louis McGrory, also formerly of City, remains from last year’s squad, adding experience to a solid squad.

Manager: Danny Robinson

In charge at Bulpit Lane for over five years, Robinson has been through plenty of ups and downs with the club.

Previously, at Thatcham, he won the FA Vase at Wembley, leading to Hungerford being tempted.

His first season saw an early end, with Covid-19 leading to the National League South being cancelled, with the club in the final play-off position.

Credit: Hungerford Town FC

The following season saw them slip down to mid-table, before ultimately, they succumbed to a bottom of the table finish in 2023, leading to relegation into the seventh tier.

The last two seasons have seen Robinson record seventh and eighth place finishes respectively, with hope they may go a step further this year.

Key player: Harry Williams

Hungerford are known for their squad unity and using a system to the full, but that doesn’t mean they lack any form of quality at this level.

Looking no further than the aforementioned Williams, who signed from relegated Swindon Supermarine over the summer.

Credit: Swindon Supermarine

A proven scorer at this level, including an incredible 34 goals in 34 games for Supermarine only three seasons ago.

His finishing abilities will no doubt prove vital to Hungerford’s success as the season passes.

Previous meeting: Hungerford 1-0 City

A disappointing result met City on their last visit to Berkshire, falling to a narrow defeat in March.

In a game of limited chances, it was Hungerford who took the lead when Brad Hooper fired home early in the second half.

It was an advantage City ultimately couldn’t eradicate, with loanee keeper Luke Bell making a handful of stops to keep City in the equation.

Credit: Jamie Brain

The result came during a sticky spell for City, as well as a strong period for Hungerford, but the circumstances are certainly different this time around.