Newly-promoted Worthing will travel to Carlisle United on Saturday, 8 August, for the first National League game in their 140-year history. The Rebels, who won the National League South title last season, face a daunting 720-mile round trip to Brunton Park for their fifth-tier debut.
The Cumbrians are entering their second season in non-league after relegation from League Two and have appointed former Gateshead boss Rob Elliot as head coach, replacing Mark Hughes. Kick-off is at 15:00 BST alongside all opening day fixtures.
Historic Day for Worthing and Hornchurch
Not since the club's formation in 1886 have Worthing reached this level of English football. Manager Chris Agutter's side have climbed from the eighth tier in 2016 to now sit among non-league's elite. Their reward is a visit to one of the division's biggest stadiums, with Carlisle's Brunton Park holding up to 17,000 fans — a far cry from the average 1,300 crowds they faced last season.
Similarly, Hornchurch will also make their National League bow on opening day, hosting Kidderminster Harriers. The Urchins, under manager Daryl McMahon, have enjoyed two promotions in three seasons to reach this stage.
Key Opening Day Fixtures
Alongside the historic newcomer storylines, several familiar names are back in the division. Harrogate Town and Barrow, both relegated from League Two last season after six years in the EFL, host Solihull Moors and visit Hartlepool United respectively. Robbie Savage’s Forest Green Rovers start at home to FC Halifax Town, while beaten play-off finalists Boreham Wood welcome Tamworth.
National League North champions AFC Fylde host Wealdstone, completing a full slate of fixtures. The regular season concludes on Saturday, 24 April, with the play-off final at Wembley on the weekend of 8 May.
How to Watch the National League on DAZN
All matches from the opening two rounds of the National League season will be televised live on DAZN, the streaming network which holds exclusive rights. The traditional 15:00 Saturday blackout will not apply, meaning fans can watch every game from matchday one and two on August 8 and 15 respectively.
DAZN's coverage begins at 15:00 BST on each matchday, with multi-game viewing options available. Subscription details and pricing can be found on the DAZN website.
Key Takeaways
- Worthing and Hornchurch prepare for their first-ever matches in the National League, marking a historic milestone for both clubs.
- Carlisle United host the Sussex side at Brunton Park, providing a tough introduction to fifth-tier football.
- Rob Elliot takes charge of Carlisle for his first competitive game, while Robbie Savage’s Forest Green start against Halifax.
- All opening weekend fixtures (8 August) will be broadcast live on DAZN, with the TV blackout lifted.
- The season concludes with the play-off final at Wembley in May 2027, with two promotion spots up for grabs.
Quick Facts
Fixture: Carlisle United vs Worthing
Date: Saturday, 8 August 2026
Kick-off: 15:00 BST
Venue: Brunton Park, Carlisle
TV/Stream: DAZN (UK and selected regions)
Other notable fixtures: Hornchurch vs Kidderminster, Forest Green vs Halifax, Hartlepool vs Barrow
