Preview: Waltham Forest v Basildon United

After three months without a competitive ball being kicked, Waltham Forest return to action this weekend against last year’s Essex Senior League runners-up Basildon United.

But the United side Forest face has been overhauled since the end of last season when the two sides met in the penultimate game.

Bees ran out 3-2 winners that evening, keeping them in touch with Bowers & Pitsea who beat them to the title by just two points. But since then, manager Craig Gillam departed, along with the entirety of his squad.

Aron Bloxham has been brought in as replacement, the former White Ensign manager finishing ninth in the Olympian League last season.

For Forest, it has also been a season of rebuilding. Kem Kemal has taken over as manager, totally transforming the Forest squad. Fans’ favourite Jeff Hammond has returned to lead the line up front, while Ahmed Mohamed also makes a comeback, having been playing in West London for the last two seasons.

Experienced campaigners Lee Flynn, Ryan Maxwell and Gareth Madden will look to give Forest the edge in defence and midfield, while a number of other exciting prospects have been signed, including former Ireland Premier League player Correy Davidson.

Only Kubilay Akbayrak and Prince Madu remain from last season for Forest.

Forest have only beaten Basildon once in six meetings, a 2-1 win back in 1999. Forest will certainly be looking to improve that record and kick-start their season with a win come 3 o’clock on Saturday.

You can follow the game live on twitter: @walthamforestfc.