Andy Woodman is settling into life in Harrogate as he prepares for Bromley’s big match in the English Football League debut. The Ravens made history by securing a place in the EFL for the first time after a penalty shoot-out victory over Solihull at Wembley in May. Now, three months later, they kick off their Sky Bet League Two campaign with an away game at Harrogate, the residence of Woodman’s best friend and former Crystal Palace teammate Gareth Southgate.
Woodman, excited about the upcoming match, mentioned that he had discussed the game with Southgate, keeping it a secret. He also noted that other friends in the area, like Danny Mills, will not be attending the game due to other commitments. Despite being underdogs in many matches this season, Woodman embraces the challenge and the opportunity to face big clubs like Bradford and Gillingham.
The journey for both Bromley and Woodman has been remarkable since his surprise appointment at the end of the 2020-21 campaign. Despite limited managerial experience, Woodman’s extensive background in football as a player and coach has prepared him for this opportunity. The decision to take over at Bromley was a calculated gamble that has paid off, with FA Trophy success in 2022 and a memorable promotion to the EFL in May.
Reflecting on his career and the decision to leave Arsenal for a non-league managerial role, Woodman expressed his belief in the potential of Bromley and the partnership with chairman Robin Stanton-Gleaves. The excitement in the town and the support from fans have been overwhelming, leading to moments of reflection and gratitude for the journey so far. However, Woodman remains focused on the upcoming season and the opportunity to create more history for the club.
As Bromley prepares to face new challenges in the EFL, Woodman’s experience and dedication will be crucial in guiding the team through the ups and downs of league football. The underdog mentality embraced by Woodman and his players will be a driving force as they look to make their mark in a competitive league. With a strong foundation and a sense of determination, Bromley under Woodman’s leadership is set to embark on an exciting chapter in their footballing journey.