Isthmian Supporters Predictions 24-25: Hastings United

Oliver is our second pre-season guide to Hastings United

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

23/24 was a tumultuous season for sure, lots of ups and downs. But there are many highlights to choose from, for me definitely the incredible away support throughout the season but especially at Eastbourne Borough in the cup, hundreds making the short trip on a bitterly cold Tuesday night, generating an unreal atmosphere and watching our young side win on penalties against step 2 Borough. 

Another euphoric moment was the last minute winner against league winners Hornchurch at the Pilot Field in front of 1,200  on a Tuesday night. 

2. And what was the worst moment?

Similarly, lots of lows to choose from, but if I had to pick one I’d say the crushing defeat  we suffered at the hands of Horsham at the AMEX, a great day out in front of thousand but still a demoralising climax to the season. 

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

Loads of squad changes last season but one constant was John Ufuah down the left wing, brilliant exciting winger to watch contributing hugely to our season with goals and boatloads of assists. 

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

We’ve retained a nice amount this season and seem to have some consistency back with our squad. Tommie Fagg at times looks a level above and I’m excited to a see a full season from him and the rest of the squad. Likewise Davide Rodari and Adam Lovatt are consistent quality players and formed the core of our side last season. Sam Crutwell stepping up from county league last season looks relentless and dominant in defence, and the new additions of Billy Vigar and Tyrese Briscoe have huge potential too.

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

Tough to say, but I reckon similar to the last few seasons, pushing Play-offs and either falling short or hopefully scraping in this time.  Danny Bloor will have something to prove here, he’ll need to show why he had success at the level above, at the very least with Sean Ray in the management team the players will be giving everything for the club and town. 

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

Lewes away, brilliant atmosphere and ground, hopefully a better result this time round.

Other than that all the local derbies with Whitehawk, Folkestone plus great days out at Dulwich/Dover, excited to visit Dartford for the first time too.

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Nothing beats the Pilot Field for me but the Dripping Pan is definitely an amazing away ground, great history, terraces and easy to get to.

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

Folkestone always has great food. 

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

Billericay Town, Chatham Town, Horsham, Dartford, Dover Athletic

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