AFC Whyteleafe to open Isthmian Premier season at Cray Wanderers ground

AFC Whyteleafe, newly promoted after winning the Isthmian South East playoff, will play its first Isthmian Premier Division match at the temporary home of Cray Wanderers, Flamingo Park, following a forced departure from its Church Road ground. Chairman Kelly Waters said the move was necessary to "guarantee Whyteleafe’s existence" and the club will face Carshalton Athletic in the opening fixture of the 2026/27 season.

Carshalton Athletic entered its ninth consecutive season in the Isthmian Premier Division after a series of pre‑season friendlies, including a 4‑0 win over a Bromley XI and a high‑scoring 9‑4 victory against an AFC Wimbledon XI. The team will travel to the newly promoted side for the season opener, marking the start of a campaign that sees both clubs competing at Step 3 of English non‑league football.