In the second part of our preview of the new Maccabi GB Southern Football League season, this week we focus on Division One.

Last year’s Division Two champions Hapoel Hampstead are looking to secure back-to-back league titles.

Manager Jordan Conn said: “After laying the foundations two seasons ago, we really hit our straps last year, winning all but one league game to clinch the league title. We’re aiming for another season near the top of the table and have made consecutive promotions our goal.

“Having pushed Hendon all the way in a 5-4 thriller, we’re also confident of pulling off a cup upset and adding some knockout silverware to our trophy cabinet.”

Starting pre-season early, beginning in July, they’ve lined up three friendlies against Premier Division opposition, in the hope that it can help them reach the top-flight of Jewish football next season.

Conn himself will be key again to any success, having scored 30 goals last season, while he’s also hoping new additions Ricky Thake, Alex Harris and Oli Clarfield can help them to a second consecutive league triumph.

Conn added: “We’re buzzing for the start of the season and as we experienced last season, not much comes close to the feeling of winning games of footy with your mates, so long may that continue.”

Redbridge Jewish Care Purple manager Kane Hopps doesn’t just expect to win the title — he’s predicting they’ll do so comfortably. In a bullish mood ahead of the big kick-off, he said: “Not only do I think we’ll achieve it in that manner, I think we’ll go unbeaten too. I’m bringing a brand of football Jewish football will have never seen before!

“Our preparations have been fantastic, we’ve gained some great new additions to complement a mixture of youth and experience. We’re not ready yet, but you bet we will be come kick-off.”

Expecting Ryan Cole to rediscover his goalscoring touch and hit 15 league goals from his new right-wing position, he added: “Winning the league and nothing less is what I’m expecting this season. I’ve been appointed by Redbridge for a reason, we’ll win the league by playing the best football that the league has ever witnessed. We can’t wait to get started and remind people we are back.”

Oakwood Town manager Mikey Cohen is also eyeing a title challenge. He said: “Following a successful first season in this division where we finished fourth, we’re aiming to push on. Our aim is a top-two finish, which I believe we’re more than capable off.”

Enjoying challenging fitness sessions during pre-season, he said “the lads look fit and ready for a huge season ahead. We’ve also planned a couple of friendlies in the next couple of weeks that should help build up our match fitness.”

Looking forward to having Henry Levy for the full season along with the return of Simon Davis, he said he’s also expecting big things from Max Lever and Max Adler.

Describing the division as a “very competitive one”, he’s also hoping the side embark on a cup run and reach their first ever semi-final and promised “an exciting brand of football and to show the League how the northerners play football!”

Real Madreidel are also hoping to challenge at the top of the table. Manager Danny Elias said: “We’re returning from an underwhelming performance in the league, but with a cup win at the end of the season we’re still very confident we can challenge for the title and add another cup trophy to the cabinet.”

Preparations started early and additions in player personnel means he has a “deep and strong squad” to select from.

As to what for him would be a successful season, he said: “At least one piece of silverware and a real title charge. We have the quality; it’s about playing our football and keeping a good mentality throughout the season. The whole team is buzzing to get the season started.”

Mill Hill Dons embark on their eighth season in the league, making a return to Division One after a Premier League stint.

Manager Brandon Hammé shared their aspirations: “During our last Division One campaign, we clinched a commendable fourth place. This time around, our sights are firmly set on securing another top-four finish.

“Our team is in a continuous process of refining our playing style, drawing inspiration from the fluid, attacking approach of Pepe Mel’s iconic 2014 West Brom team. The atmosphere within the squad is nothing short of exceptional, and we approach the upcoming season with lots of enthusiasm and unwavering determination.”

Temple Fortune A are under new manager Stevie Allen, formerly of HMH U18s, after Simon Linden stepped down, and they’re hoping the team will improve and hold its own in what will be their 48th season of participation in Maccabi football. Allen said avoiding relegation is the minimum requirement and “anything above that would be a bonus”.

Boca Chillers and Real Salt Beef complete the line-up.

If you are interested in joining a team, please contact football@maccabigb.org.