THE start of pre-season friendlies can’t come quickly enough for AFC Stoneham who have a tasty fixture against National League neighbours Eastleigh to look forward to next Tuesday (July 5, 7.45pm).

The Spitfires have had an ultra-productive summer, welcoming in no fewer than eight new signings to aid their push for the Football League.

Several of those newcomers are expected to be on show at Stoneham’s Elliotts Arena in Chestnut Avenue where admission will be £7 (including programme) for adults, £3 concessions and under-16s and free for under-12s accompanied by a paying adult.

“It’s very exciting to have such an excellent friendly,” said Mark Stupple, chairman of the Sydenhams One club.

“We are expecting Eastleigh to have most of their summer signings with them and play a very strong squad.

“Although we have only just started pre-season training, our players are really looking forward to the game and to playing against full-time professional players.

“It will be a great challenge for our lads playing in front of, hopefully, a lot more spectators than for a normal Wessex League game.

“It is an opportunity for Eastleigh fans to visit our small ground as opposed to driving past it, which many probably do every day!

"If they enjoy their visit we would hope some of them will return to watch us when Eastleigh are away.

"We are extremely grateful to Eastleigh and Chris Todd for agreeing to play us"

Available car parking in the ground will be free.