Johnstone's Paint Trophy throws up some plum ties

It’s glitzy, it desperately sought after, and it’s back! After a lengthy pre-season, the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy will kick off once again on Tuesday 1st September with a host of new teams, players and stadiums to look forward to.

August 2009

Johnstone’s is entering its fourth year of trophy sponsorship and couldn’t be more excited about the new season, with a number of big names entering the fray for the first time.

For many League 1 and 2 clubs, the rocky road to the final will begin in earnest, and after one look at the first round draw, it won’t be easy.

The draw, as made by Soccer AM presenters Helen Chamberlain and Max Rushden, feature some high profile clashes, as well as many other intriguing encounters.

The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy will welcome Helen’s team Torquay into the competition after a three year absence, and their trip to Cheltenham Town promises to be a tasty affair.

But arguably the plum tie of the round features Norwich City at home to a resurgent Brentford at Carrow Road.

The prospect of seeing Norwich competing in the competition is an exciting one for Johnstone’s, especially with their huge following of supporters on board. It should be a game to remember.

The tie is expected to attract the biggest attendance of the first round, although MK Dons v Dagenham & Redbridge, also in the southern east section, could also get the turnstiles clicking.

MK Dons, famous winners of the trophy in 2008, will be keen to repeat their success, particularly with Paul Ince as their manager once more.

They will have their work cut out against a Dagenham & Redbridge side which has caught the eye in the first few games of the new season.

Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium is a new ground for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy to look forward to seeing, and the newly promoted team will take on Chesterfield in an exciting clash.

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy’s sponsorship co-ordinator Sally Binns said: “Our first round draw, live on Soccer AM, launched the season in style, and now it is time to sit back and enjoy the action.

“Each first round game will be intriguing for many reasons, and we look forward to seeing the results come in, as a number of clubs take their first step to Wembley.”

Johnstone’s. Bringing colour to the beautiful game.