Is it really just over ten weeks ago that Brentford entertained Peterborough United in their final fixture of last season?
Well astonishingly it is and the Bees begin their preparations for another campaign this evening, with an attractive looking opening pre-season fixture, against local rivals, Reading, kick-off 7.45pm.
The Berkshire club completed an excellent first term back in the Nationwide First Division last time around, reaching the end of season play-offs, before bowing out to eventual winners, Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Since then, manager Alan Pardew has considerably strengthened his squad, with the acquisitions of Bristol City's Scott Murray for a fee of around £650, 000, and Wimbledon's Republic of Ireland international, David Connelly, scorer of 24 goals last season, to compliment an already impressive line-up.
However, on the downside, the prolific Jamie Cureton, lest we forget, the man whose goal back in April 2002 denied Brentford automatic promotion under Steve Coppell's management is on his way out of the Madejski, bound for South Korea after failing to agree a new contract with the Royals.
Brentford in contrast, may give starts to trialists, Brent Rahim and Paul Geddes and although Steve Marshall, Jamie Fullarton and Martin Rowlands have all moved on, the nucleus of last season's squad still remains in tact, complimented by the exciting young talents of Jay Tabb and Mark Peters.
Bees' manager, Wally Downes may also have one or two further new faces to spring upon us and with the club having vastly reduced admission prices, children will be allowed in for a £1, and ex-Bees, Nicky Forster and Steve Sidwell also expected in the visitor's line-up, why not pop along to Griffin Park tonight for a first taste of the live action.
Kids for £1
A reminder of this evening's admission prices.
Seating
Adults £10.00
OAP/Student £5.00
Under-16 £1.00
Terrace
Adults £10.00
OAP/Student £5.00
Under-16 £1.00
The club has confirmed that free movement is anticipated between the Brook and Braemer Road stands, whilst visiting supporters will be housed in the New Road stand. The Ealing road terrace and Braemer Road A block will not be open.