After suffering their first relegation in the club’s history, Dorking Wanderers were hoping to bounce straight back to the National League. They came agonizingly close last season, finishing sixth in a thrilling title race that saw them just three points behind eventual winners Truro City. However, their playoff hopes were dashed in a dramatic quarter-final loss to Boreham Wood, meaning another season in the National League South awaits.
This summer, the club has undergone a minor squad overhaul with seven senior players leaving, most of them over 30, suggesting manager Marc White is looking to inject more youth and energy into the team. White tends to favor a settled squad, so while we can expect a few key signings, it’s unlikely the club will go on a major recruitment drive.
One of the standout signings for Dorking is Frank Vincent, a versatile player who can operate as both a left-back and central midfielder. With experience in the National League and League Two, having played for clubs like Torquay, Scunthorpe, and Notts County, Vincent brings invaluable experience to the side.Louie Annesley’s arrival is another huge plus. The Gibraltar international has dropped down a level to sign for Dorking from Braintree, and he’s definitely capable of playing in League Two, so it’s clear the Wanderers are serious about their ambitions for promotion. However, the signing of Dennon Lewis raises some concerns. He has struggled with form and injuries recently, and while he has potential, there’s a question mark over whether he can get back to his best.
Looking at the current squad, there’s plenty to be optimistic about. Jason Prior and Alfie Rutherford form one of the most lethal strike partnerships in non-league football. With both capable of scoring in bundles, they’ll be key to Dorking’s chances of success. Charlie Carter, the newly appointed captain, is one of the strongest central midfielders in the league, and his leadership and ability to control games will be crucial. The squad is incredibly tight-knit, and there’s a real sense of unity within the group, something that’s often overlooked in a competitive league like this.
Dorking’s ability to keep a relatively unchanged squad this summer should give them an early advantage over teams with more turnover. When the team is firing, they’re hard to stop, so White will be hoping to get points on the board early and build momentum.
With their solid core, experienced leadership, and a deadly strike force, Dorking have a stronger chance of winning the league title than any of the relegated clubs or those who missed out in the playoffs last season. If they can maintain consistency and stay injury-free, this is a side that could very well be at the top of the National League South come the end of the season.
Prediction: 3rd
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