Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 24-25: Bowers and Pitsea

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. 

Jack Boardman reviews a glorious Bowers year.

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

Too many to name! I think the key highlights aside from going up were:

The first long away trip, to Gorleston. We took a coach up there with a mix of players, coaching staff and us fans and had a really good day out by the sea, plus a 2-0 win made it all the worthwhile. Both Basildon United games were also massive for us in terms of rivalry and bragging rights, a win at home and a win away was fabulous.

And the Play Offs, we went up to Felixstowe on a wet Tuesday night and it was all a bit nervy to say the least. The lads got it done, however, and put us through on penalties to give us the dream of a Play-Off Final at home! An all-Essex final against a team that had our number early in the season on our home turf… I don’t remember much about the final penalty apart from falling over the fence.

2. And what was the worst moment?

Not winning the title? No, in all seriousness I can’t think of any bad moments from last season. We had a slightly slow start with a few losses and draws here and there but looked better every week we played, going unbeaten for a couple of months. 

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

I can’t give it to just one person. Ben “Willow” Williamson was awesome for us, and a huge goalscorer early on which arguably helped us get to the position we got to. Speaking of goalscorers, Matthew Price was mega, he would score for fun and wind anyone up. TQ Addy was also a standout for me. 

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

Retaining David Hughes in goal may arguably be the best decision come the end of the season, he saved crucial penalties in the playoffs and would make saves that you had no hope of him getting to. TQ, Malakai, Archie Cane, Tariq Straker and Lewis Chambers all staying suggests there’s that belief we can build on last seasons success. The arrivals of Brandon Aviero and Rohdell will make us better. 

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

I’ve seen some early predictions and think people are doubting us too quickly, too soon again. Last year we proved that we had the resilience and ability to come from behind and get points out of scrappy situations. I think we’re well versed this year to stay up and build a healthy league position. Just keep doubting us and we can keep proving people wrong then we’ll be alright. 

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

Any? The Premier is full of massive clubs and amazing grounds. Horsham, for the food, pints and ground. Dulwich Hamlet’s ground, a National League graded ground with a few thousand in attendance each week- as well as Dartford and Dover. Lewes is steeped in history, and you’ve new grounds such as Hendon and Cray Wanderers to look forward to. 

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Might be an ‘out there’ suggestion but Carshalton Athletic. Retro, decent food and a nice bar area to sit in as well. 

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

Horsham or Potters Bar Town.

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

Chatham Town, Dulwich Hamlet, Horsham, Billericay Town, Cray Wanderers

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.