The Hawks travel to Chippenham Town full of confidence after starting the season perfectly, winning two from two. 

A comfortable 3-0 victory in the season opener against Welling followed by a last-gasp winner last week-end at Hampton and Richmond sees Paul Doswell’s men joint-top of the National League South.

Whilst Chippenham kicked-off the season with a 1-1 draw with Dulwich Hamlet. The Bluebirds take on Slough on Saturday, before welcoming the Hawks to Hardenhuish Park on Bank Holiday Monday. 

The last time these two sides met came back in the 19/20 campaign, battling out a 0-0 draw in Western Wiltshire. 

A lot has changed for both teams since then, but Manager Paul Doswell expects it to be a similar type of affair: “When you go to Chippenham, you know you’re in for a very competitive game. They’re a very honest team as well and have some real quality within their ranks. 

“This league is not easy this year, and certainly Monday’s game will not be easy.”

Doswell mentioned post Hampton and Richmond that options were limited off the bench to come on and influence the game. But the 54-year-old is hopeful he may have a few more at his disposal following a nine day break: “We’re training again on Saturday morning because we don’t have a game.

“We’re hopeful one or two might be able to come back in and train Saturday, but as things stand it’s the same 13.”

Written by: Ryan Honey