Colchester test on opening day

FLASHBACK: Connor Brown celebrates after his cross led to the winning goal at Colchester last season.

ATHLETIC kick-off the new season with a trip to Colchester United.

Lee Johnson’s side will aim to stretch the current 10-match unbeaten run on August 9 at the Weston Homes Community Stadium — scene of a crucial 1-0 victory two months ago.

It means an immediate reunion for former Colchester defender and new defensive signing Brian Wilson.

The first home game in Sky Bet League One arrives seven days later, when losing play-off finalists Leyton Orient arrive at Boundary Park.

A tough opening month also includes an away-day at Preston followed by a trip to Doncaster — the club managed by ex-Athletic manager Paul Dickov.

Johnson faces his first head-to-head with father Gary — boss at relegated Yeovil — when the clubs meet at Boundary Park on December 13.

The only managerial meeting between father and son so far ended in a 1-0 win for Athletic two seasons ago, Matt Smith scoring the only goal.

The campaign finishes with a home match against Peterborough on May 2.

Boxing Day has Crewe visiting Boundary Park, with a trip to relegated Barnsley two days later at Oakwell.

There is no game on New Year’s Day, with the nearest fixture being the visit of promoted local rivals Rochdale on January 3.

Of the other clubs promoted from League Two, Athletic are at home to Fleetwood on September 6, with a return leg at Highbury on January 17.

The first meeting with Scunthorpe arrives on Saturday, September 27, while a journey to Chesterfield comes up on October 18.

With Brentford promoted, the sole London trip of the season will be to Leyton Orient on February 21.