Isthmian Supporters Predictions: Cray Valley PM

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. 

Paul looks back at a fine Cray Valley campaign, and has high hopes for the new season

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

The 2 highlights for me from last season would be the FA Cup Replay when we hosted Charlton Athletic back at the Artic Stadium , and of course the final day of the season away at Horndean when we clinched the Championship and promotion to the Isthmian Premier.   When I first started following the Millers three seasons previously I never dreamt I'd get to see the ground full to capacity with live television cameras present. It really was "Roy of the Rovers" stuff, a magical and exciting night that I'll treasure for the rest of my life and I was just so glad to have a ticket for it!

2. And what was the worst moment?

There wasn't one!

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

Now that is a very tough one as you might expect with any side that wins a championship; the whole squad performed superbly and the candidates for this title easily goes into double figures.  But for me, having already agonised over this for the club's own player of the season award, it goes to skipper Arthur Lee who marshalled the defence superbly from the first game to the last.

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

The gaffer has kept nearly the entire squad from last season, so there aren't a host of 'new exciting' signings to choose from. Andre Coker is the only new signing,  so it'll be interesting to see how he can impact upon the playing action, but I'm equally excited to see how the young Malachy Turner will fare having been promoted from the U18s to the first team.  Other  players whom I'm looking forward to being re-acquainted with are Denzel Gayle and Michael Ademeluyi; two players who love running down the wings with the ball and trying to jink inside defenders to have a shot on goal.

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

Overall I think we will surprise a fair few this season, and I genuinely believe a top half of table finish is possible.  There is a great team spirit at the club, and this is going to be a very exciting season for us all as we test ourselves against some bigger clubs.

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

The grounds I'm looking forward to visiting the most will be the likes of Billericay Town, Hastings United and Carshalton Athletic, simply because I've never been able to visit them yet, although its hard to deny that visits to Dover and Dartford will be equally exciting from a Cray Valley PM perspective.   Given the historical significance of the club- and the fact that they've finally got a ground to call their own- the "Cray Derby" against Cray Wanderers is also eagerly anticipated!

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

The ground I've probably enjoyed the most (leaving aside the sweet sweet memories of Horndean) would be East Grinstead Town.  A lovely main stand that is elevated and gives a great view of of the action. 

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

The best scoff I've had on the road following Cray Valley PM would be at Haywards Heath Town, although they're sadly not in the Isthmian any more. 

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

Chatham Town, Horsham, Billericay Town, Dulwich Hamlet, Lewes

Thank you- now, who’s next? If you’d like to represent your club please send an email to Ian at [email protected] and we’ll send you the questions.