Skip to main content
Advertise with the Morning Star
Boys mark new beginnings as Hayes Lane plays host to league newcomers
Bromley manager Andy Woodman ahead of the Vanarama National League play-off semi-final match at Technique Stadium, Chesterfield, May 7, 2023

By Layth Yousif 

at Hayes Lane


 
YOU could tell it was going to be a special occasion when the merest hint of a rainbow emerged to welcome the nation’s newest league team, following a brief sprinkling of rain in deepest south London on Tuesday evening.

Hayes Lane, Bromley was the scene. 

Where Andy Woodman’s Ravens hosted AFC Wimbledon in the first round of the League Cup. It also happened to be their maiden home game as a league side in this welcoming club’s 132-year history. 

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Detroit Prowl's Toya Shinaul, from left to right, Kelly Bernadyn, Sydney Hebel, Jasmine Hamilton and Allie Gorcyca walk out for the coin toss at the start of an AWFL women's football game against the Lansing Legacy, in Allen Park, Mich., Saturday, May 10, 2025
Tackle Football / 24 June 2025
24 June 2025

LARRY LAGE writes about the growth of tackle football and how it provides female athletes opportunities in a game previously dominated by men

Sam Hutchinson
Men’s football / 21 May 2025
21 May 2025

AFC Wimbledon midfielder Sam Hutchinson revealed he had a heart attack during the game where his goal later sealed a League Two play-off place

An Arsenal branded corner flag
Men’s football / 2 May 2025
2 May 2025

In the shadow of Heathrow and glow of Thorpe Park, a band of Arsenal loyalists have built something lasting — a grassroots club with old-school values, writes LAYTH YOUSIF

Everton fans in the stands ahead of the Premier League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool, April 19, 2025
Men’s football / 21 April 2025
21 April 2025

As the historic ground prepares for its emotional farewell, even visiting teams like Manchester City are paying tribute to one of English football’s most storied stadiums, writes JAMES NALTON