The first week of the National League is here, with the goalscoring accumulator returning. Matthew O'Regan provides his best National League goalscoring betting tips and predictions.
Aldershot host Forest Green in what is set to be a bumper tie at The EBB Stadium.
While Forest Green have suffered disappointing back-to-back relegations back to the National League, their squad looks well versed to bounce back at the first time of asking. Owner Dale Vince has evidently learnt from his mistakes and is putting his money where his mouth is, signing a heap of EFL experience.
However, one player who could be imperative as they chase instant redemption is Christian Doidge. The 31-year-old re-signed for the Gloucestershire club where he is much-adored in the January window, but he was unable to fire them to safety.
However, the Welshman has previous at this level, having scored 27 in 44 league games as Forest Green were promoted to the EFL for the first time in their history. He followed this up by scoring 39 goals in 78 games in the EFL, before being snapped up by Championship side Bolton. Doidge failed to make an impact in a drab season for Bolton on the whole, so he was moved onto Scottish Premiership side Hibernian, where he was a fan favourite due to his goalscoring exploits.
Now back at the New Lawn, Doidge will be looking to inspire Forest Green to the title, starting with a goal in the opener.
Best Bet: Christian Doidge to score @3.10 - Bet365
Charley Kendall joined Woking on a short-term contract and looked sharp towards the end of the season. He scored a hatful of goals in the league below for Eastbourne Borough a few years ago prompting Lincoln to move for him- this move didn’t work out for him but it’s clear there is real talent there- he just needs to find a place to settle.
Woking have well-documented off-the-field issues but they still look in good shape going into the season, with an exciting squad and a talented young manager in Michael Doyle. While the Cardinals are still looking for another striker to compete, Kendall is expected to start the season, desperate to make an impact. Altrincham conceded 59 goals last season, so Woking will fancy their chances of scoring at least one.
Best Bet: Charley Kendall to score @3.25 - Bet365
Despite finishing in the top seven last season, Gateshead were denied entry into the promotion playoffs due to the regulations of their ground. Work has begun to rectify this, but the Head will be keen to ensure they don't have to rely on the playoffs.
When Mike Williamson departed for MK Dons, Rob Elliot stepped us as interim boss and the transition was seamless. Now at Gateshead permanently, he will be looking to implement his attacking style of football this season.
Marcus Dinanga has departed to EFL team Bromley this summer after scoring 20 goals last season. However, with Dinanga struggling for form before last season, it could be argued that he was a beneficiary of the system, as opposed to his own ability. Owen Oseni has been brought in as his replacement from Derby, after scoring eight goals in 15 games on loan at National League North side Rushall Olympic last season.
The youngster is quick, strong and clinical and should be a real handful in the Gateshead system. Ebbsfleet conceded 74 goals last season and could be up against it on Saturday.
Best Bet: Owen Oseni to score @2.75 - Bet 365
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