The countdown to that hotly-anticipated away trip to Carlisle United is well and truly underway for the Mackerel Men, with their preparations stepping up tomorrow afternoon with a first test against recognised senior opposition.
It’s a Champions showdown at the Badgers Hill Stadium, with the National League South title victors paying a visit to a Frome side that recently tasted success of their own.
Last season, the Robins deservedly achieved the label of Centurions, as they accumulated a tally of 102 points in the Southern League Division One South.
The friendly at Frome is the third of seven friendlies the Reds will contest from now until the 8 August, with battles against Queens Park Rangers U21s, Enfield Town, Brighton & Hove Albion U21s and Horsham to come.
The Opposition
Frome are spending the summer recalibrating their systems ahead of their return to seventh tier football.
Following relegation from the Southern League Premier Division South in the 2024/25, Danny Greaves’ side responded in impressive fashion by winning the Southern League Division One South title, sealing an immediate re-elevation.
It’s been a period of success in Somerset. Alongside their league exploits, they have also been excelling in the cup competitions, reaching the Third Round of the FA Trophy for the first time during the 2023/24 campaign courtesy of a penalty shootout victory over Adam Hinshelwood’s Worthing.
The Gaffer
Frome boss Danny Greaves is entering his eighth year in charge of the Robins and is one of the longest-serving managers in the seventh tier.
He was appointed First-Team manager in 2018 off the back of a respectable spell in the hotseat at Bradford Town FC.
Greaves’ knowledge of players in the the local area has helped the coach build squads capable of challenging and competing over the years. As a player, he entered the pitch over 400 times and became acquainted with many contacts in the surrounding area, a trait that has enabled him to recruit quality players.
During his time in Yorkshire at Bradford Town, he led the club to their two consecutive highest ever finishes in the Western League during his tenure.
One to Watch
Full-back Sam Heal was a vital component in Frome’s rise to the top of the table in the 2025/26 season.
The former Chippenham Town defender progressed through the ranks at Bristol Rovers, where he spent time on loan at North Leigh.
Despite his defensive nature, Heal popped up with some crucial moments in front of goal, including the winner against rivals Westbury United. His form was rewarded with a new contract this summer, extending his time at Badgers Hill.
At 22-years-old, Heal is far from the finished product and will be looking to build upon an impressive campaign in the months to come.
Tickets
Prices for the match at Badger’s Hill Stadium can be found below. You can secure your tickets either online or at the turnstiles, with a small booking fee included when purchasing in advance.
Adult –£10.00
Concession – £7.00
Student (16-21) – £4.00
U16 (Accompanied by an Adult) – £1.00
HOW TO FOLLOW
If you can’t be at the game, you can follow the game via live updates from the club’s official X account.
You can also listen to live commentary via the club’s official commentary service.
Originally published by Worthing FC ↗