The objective is to gain promotion back to Step Five with the two Covid-19 hit seasons we haven’t had the chance to finish a season, so finishing a season would be great, says Croydon boss Liam Giles

CROYDON manager Liam Giles says his objective for the season is to guide the club towards promotion after twice being denied the opportunity due to the Coronavirus health pandemic.

The past two seasons have been either declared null and void or curtailed by the pandemic.

The Trams kick-off their Southern Counties East Football League First Division campaign on Saturday when newly-promoted side Staplehurst Monarchs United visit Croydon Sports Arena.

“I am looking forward to our opening game back at the Arena after such a long time away,” said Giles.

“The pitch is looking good and it will be nice to be playing back at our home.

“I don’t know an awful lot about Staplehurst.  However, we know every game this season is going to be tough and we won’t be taking anyone lightly.

“Again, for us the objective is to gain promotion back to Step Five with the two Covid-19 hit seasons we haven’t had the chance to finish a season, so finishing a season would be great!

“We have made a lot of changes over the summer to the squad. We do have a couple of players missing through self-isolation, which I think will be a regular thing over the season for everyone.”

Croydon had to play their games away from home last season as they weren’t allowed to use their home ground due to Covid-19 restrictions and they played one London Senior Trophy tie at the nearby Crystal Palace National Sports Stadium.

“It will be nice to see a good crowd at the Arena on Saturday and hopefully we can start off the campaign with three points.,” added Giles.

Visit Croydon’s website:  www.croydonfc.com

Croydon  v  Staplehurst Monarchs United
Southern Counties East Football League First Division
Saturday 31 July 2021
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Croydon Sports Arena, Albert Road, South Norwood, London SE25 4QL