What changed
2026-07-28 22:29 UTC → 2026-08-02 00:54 UTC ·
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July July‑August 2026 saw English non‑league and lower‑league clubs ramp up shape their pre‑season programmes. Buxton opened with a 6‑1 win over Droylsden, featuring new signings Tai Sodje and Sisa Tuntulwana under manager Jordan Broadbent, while Torquay United beat Buckland Athletic 3‑1 and later dispatched Cullompton Rangers 5‑1. Buxton’s 3‑1 loss to Sporting Braga at St George’s Park highlighted squad depth squad‑depth testing, and Torquay’s fitness and movement were praised by manager Jimmy Ball. Fleetwood Town claimed the inaugural Kev Walker Cup with a 5‑0 victory over Bamber Bridge, Bridge and later held Bolton Wanderers to a 1‑1 draw, with Ched Evans and Thierry Gale scoring. Coach Matt Lawlor lauded the squad’s quality despite conceding. On 1 August, Fleetwood travelled to Victoria Park and were beaten 1‑0 by Hartlepool United, a late goal ending their pre‑season unbeaten run of four wins and a draw. Lawlor called the match a “perfect test”, noting the physicality and the need to improve control and finishing. Yeovil Town beat Melksham Town 4‑1; both matches included tributes to late volunteer Kev Walker, whose family attended the ceremony. The pre‑season continued on 27 July: 4‑1, and Atherton Collieries extended their unbeaten run with a 1‑0 win over Bala Town thanks to Sam Sheridan’s free‑kick, while Fleetwood held Bolton Wanderers to a 1‑1 draw, Ched Evans scoring first and Thierry Gale equalising late. Coach Matt Lawlor praised the squad’s quality despite the concession. These free‑kick. The fixtures round out the clubs’ preparations for the 2026/27 campaigns. campaigns, with managers highlighting fitness, squad depth and tactical tweaks ahead of the new season.