Pre-season is nearly here!

Last updated : 23 June 2003 By
Brentford have lined up seven exciting pre-season friendlies as they begin preparations for another Nationwide Second Division campaign, the first of which takes place on Tuesday 15th July, when Alan Pardew brings his Reading side to Griffin Park.

The Berkshire side enjoyed a tremendous year in the Nationwide First Division last time around, nearly gaining promotion for the second successive campaign - The Royals made the end of season play-offs, before losing out to eventual winners, Wolverhampton Wanderers, at the semi-final stage in May.

Brentford play at the Huish on July 19
The following Saturday, 19th July 2003, sees Wally Downes' men embark on a three match mini-tour of the West Country, which comprises a visit to the Huish, home of Gary Johnson's Nationwide Third Division newcomers, Yeovil Town, newly relegated Nationwide Conference club, Exeter City and Dr Martens Premier Division, Dorchester Town.

Brentford then return closer to home for further away games against non-league opposition, namely Ryman Division One South club, Staines Town and Nationwide Conference side, Farnborough Town respectively.

The Bees' complete their pre-season programme with a mouth watering home fixture against Harry Redknapp's FA Barclaycard Portsmouth, four days before the league action starts in earnest, with the opening day trip to Ray Mathias' Tranmere Rovers on August 9th.

The full list of Brentford's pre-season friendlies is:

Tuesday 15th July - READING (H)
Saturday 19th July - Yeovil Town (A)
Tuesday 22nd July - Exeter City (A)
Saturday 26th July - Dorchester Town (A)
Tuesday 29th July - Staines Town (A)
Saturday 2nd August - Farnborough Town (A)
Tuesday 5th August - PORTSMOUTH (H)