Sunday 16th August 2026 I 2:30pm KO I The Peter Humphrey’s Memorial Ground
A New Era Begins
Steyning Town Women begin their 2026/27 league campaign on Sunday as the Barrownesses embark on a new chapter in the London & South East Regional Women’s Football League Division One South.
Following a sixth-place finish last season, Steyning return to Tier 6 looking to build on the foundations of the previous campaign. This season sees a new-look management team take charge following the departure of Head Coach Danny Norris and his assistant Geoffrey Balmont.
A core of last season’s Barrownesses have committed to another season in the red and white, while a number of exciting, skilful and committed new players have joined the squad. Some arrive with experience at this level, while others will be competing in Tier 6 football for the first time. The new management team, led by Kaz Bridgewater, will be hoping to bring the group together as they look to develop and grow throughout the season.
Derham to Lead the Barrownesses
Once again, the women’s side will be led by club stalwart Emma Derham.
Emma enters her ninth season with Steyning Town and has been there through it all — from the League and Cup double-winning season, promotion, FA Cup runs and relegation battles.
A player renowned for her commitment, competitiveness and loyalty to the club, Emma remains a hugely important figure within the squad and will once again wear the captain’s armband as the Barrownesses begin a new era.
Supporting Emma as Vice-Captain will be Lauren Tyler.
Lauren joined Steyning in the 2024/25 season and has established herself as an ever-present member of the side, making 39 appearances for the club to date. Her experience, consistency and commitment have been clear throughout pre-season, particularly as the squads personnel has undergone a period of transition.
Her loyalty to the club and leadership qualities have been recognised by the new management team, with Lauren deservedly stepping into the Vice-Captain role.
New Season, New Challenge
Standing in Steyning’s way on the opening day will be newly promoted Tonbridge Angels.
Managed by Joe Rowe, Tonbridge finished second in the Kent Women’s Premier Division last season, narrowly missing out on the title by just two points to eventual champions Maidstone United.
The two sides played out a title decider at Longmead last season which attracted an incredible crowd of 428 — an outstanding attendance for a Tier 7 women’s fixture and a clear indication of the growing interest surrounding the women’s game.
Following the expansion of the Women’s Super League and vacancies arising higher up the women’s football pyramid, Tonbridge were successful in their application for promotion.
Having established their women’s side just three years ago, Sunday will mark a significant milestone for the Angels as they begin their first season at Tier 6 — and their first-ever meeting with Steyning Town Women.
An Entertaining Opening Fixture Awaits
Both sides head into Sunday’s fixture with plenty to look forward to.
For the Barrownesses, it is the beginning of a new era. A new management team, a refreshed squad and a determination to build something together will provide plenty of intrigue as Steyning begin their latest Tier 6 campaign.
For Tonbridge Angels, it is the opportunity to test themselves at a higher level following a hugely successful campaign last season.
With both teams eager to make a positive start, give a good account of themselves and get points on the board at the first opportunity, an entertaining and competitive opening-day encounter awaits.
The new season starts here.
Come on you Barrownesses!
