Football League talent can boost Lewes as new Isthmian Premier season starts
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Lewes FC begin their 2026-27 Isthmian League Premier Division campaign this weekend as they welcome Enfield Town to The Dripping Pan.
Having finished four points above the relegation zone last season in 17th place, the Rooks have recuperated over the summer, with manager Craig Nelson benefiting from his first full summer of reflection and planning.
Nelson, who arrived at the club in May 2024 and spent five months with Tonbridge Angels between April and September 2025 before returning, has attracted some highly talented players this summer.
The additions of former EFL defender Tom Bender, ex-Billericay Town midfielder Tyrese Owen and winger Noel Fisher, who netted 18 goals last season for Horsham YM, have drawn particular attention.
Other recruits include striker Calum Newson, utility man Tyler Cox, former Whitehawk midfielder Andrew Briggs and ex-Walthamstow goal-getter Brian Garzon.
Having completed their pre-season with a 6-0 win over a young Bromley XI last weekend, the Rooks appear to have hit their straps at the right time.
It follows a largely low-scoring pre-season in which they beat Rusthall (2-1), Hastings United (2-1) and Eastbourne Town (1-0), drew with a Gillingham XI (0-0) and lost to Dorking Wanderers (1-2).
“We got what we needed to get out of the games,” said Nelson.
“It’s a bit unfortunate we didn't get the Bromley we thought were coming, but I feel it was still a good test. The boys got asked to dominate the football and score goals, and that's exactly what we did.
“We've been tested, and now it's about sharpening the tools for Saturday. I can't wait to get going now. I think everybody feels the same.”
Lewes’ opponents this Saturday, Enfield, finished 23rd in the National League South last season in their second year at Step 2.
A fellow fan-owned club, the North London side return to the Isthmian Premier with high expectations under new manager Billy Holland, who was previously in charge of Waltham Abbey.
“Enfield is going to be a really tough game,” said Nelson.
“They've come down a league. They’ll have bundles of experience, so it’ll be a great test to see where we are.
“The fans will no doubt be buzzing to be back. It will be an amazing experience for some of those that haven't already played in front of the fans, too, because pre-season's one thing, but when it gets going and there's points on the line, it's a totally different atmosphere.”