Isthmian Supporters Predictions 24-25: Haringey Borough

We asked supporters of our Pitching In Isthmian League clubs to preview the new season, reflect on the old and predict the final outcome. Their predicted 1-22 will be worked into a final table which you will see just before the big kick off. 

Dave sings because he’s Haringey…

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

Well there weren't many, were there!? 11 minutes into the season, 2 up at Canvey and top of the league? That was the best bit. Mind you, we went on to lose that game, as we so often did after leading. The number of points we lost from winning positions ended up being in excess of those we actually got. 

However... beating NLS Tonbridge Angels in the cup and the glimmer of hope - however small and futile - of an excellent win at New Lodge won't be forgotten from a season I already otherwise refuse to acknowledge.

2. And what was the worst moment?

All of it. Although conceding 10 goals at home over 2 Christmas fixtures and 19 in our last 4 home games are both up there.

I was most delighted to be at the birth of my daughter on Good Friday - mostly(!) because her 5:40pm arrival necessitated my absence from a 5 goal kicking courtesy of Hastings. Is that a high point or low point??? Luckily Mrs W does not consult the Isthmian League website regularly so we don't have to find out...

3. Which member of your squad was your Player of the Season - and why?

Michael O'Donoghue would probably have been in the frame had he not gone to Hornchurch (I've forgiven you Mikey). Dillon Barnes was rarely at fault and I was very pleased to see his gracious tribute to Boro in his first interview at Dulwich. 

But ultimately it was Matty Young, who I respected for seeing the season through. He still gave it his all even when heads dropped around him and had a killer penalty on him. A really nice lad, I wish him all the best.

4. Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 24-25 campaign?

 Resisting the urge to say my favourite Scott Mitchell, it is surely the return of Tosin Olufemi from Bishops Stortford... An utter coup for step 4, in my opinion.

5. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?

Hard to say. We've retained a few that form a bit of a core, but a lot of the team sheet is alien to me at the moment, and it definitely feels as if we're in a bit of a transition, although top half should be well within reach. I'd like to say we'll bounce straight back, but this is an immensely tough league. I'd just be happy winning a few, to be honest...

6. Which matches are you most looking forward to going to- and why?

Big change from the south coast heavy Prem... Nice to have a few nearby, but everyone loves a trek, don't they? Newmarket appears to be the punters' choice amongst colleagues, but I don't want my bucket and spade to go to waste either. Cambridge and Bury are on my agenda also. 

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

For all around day out value, I loved going to Folkestone, and Horsham was always great too. Brightlingsea for teams in the North. (Now they're back, and I'm sorry chaps, but definitely NOT Hendon - I've seen a cup semi and 2 finals at SJP and Boro have lost the lot!)

8. If you regularly travelled away, which ground served the best food?

 I very rarely eat in grounds but Kingstonian's stint at Tooting was obviously an exception. If food for players and officials goes uneaten it's brought into the Coles Park bar and the riot commences! Has to be the best if it's free!!??

9. Who do you think will finish in the top five? 

Bury Town, Cambridge City, Brentwood Town, Felixstowe and Walton United, Waltham Abbey

The survey is now closed- and you’ll see the predicted league tables on Saturday morning, prior to the big kick off!