Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 26-27: Cheshunt

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.  Tommy Curtis gives us an Ambers view. 

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

The highlight from last season was beating St Albans 2-1 away from home which put us top after 5 games. It left a real buzz around the club and a real sense of optimism for the coming season. Also, our cup runs reaching the London Cup semi final and the FA Trophy 3rd round playing away to Wealdstone.    

And what was the worst moment?

When we lost 3-1 away to Potters Bar in the Christmas fixture. It meant we had won 1 in 19 in the league and were at a real risk of relegation. Also, our 2-1 loss away to Hashtag United- after they had lost 7-0 to Dartford the game before and had already requested relegation. 

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

My player of the season last year was Dequane Wilson-Braithwaite; he played almost every game and was extremely reliable in midfield and popped up with a goal every so often. Composure on the ball and guaranteed a 7/10 performance every week (now moved to Dover in NLS).

Moving on to your current squad - which players do you think will make a big impact during the 26/27 campaign?

This season I think our most influential player will be Cole DaSilva. He’s a player we came up against last year, and who scored against us. Ex Chelsea FA Youth Cup winner, he has great passing and technical ability. His set-piece ability I rate highly as he uses both feet. 

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

This season I think that a 14-16th finish in the league would be great. Mel Gwinnett unfortunately resigning to focus on health just half way through pre-season is a huge blow, as his knowledge and precise analysis was a massive boost last year. We’ve now got James Elliott in charge, and I believe he will have a great impact with his passion and non league experience. 

If you could choose a song for your side to run our to, what would it be- and why?

A song I would want us to walk out to is Tom Hark by Paris Music. It’s a song that is related to Jo Re, a player who was the captain during our 21/22 Isthmian Premier Playoff win and has recently returned with the club (us old folks remember the original version of that by The Piranhas- Isthmian Ian).

From all the opposition players you watched last season, which one would you love to see in your side- and why?

A player we came up against last year who was outstanding was Elliot Long of Billericay. When he played for Wingate & Finchley he was always a stand out performer and when he moved to Billericay it was a good signing for them. His creativity and scoring ability is what I love the most. 

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Either Dartford, Princes Park or Bognor Regis Nyewood Lane. Dartford has great facilities and a huge stadium which I love. However, I prefer Bognor Regis as it is a great away day in general and also a fresh and clean stadium with great hospitality and a good pitch. 

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

Billericay. The four separate occasions I’ve been at Billericay the burgers have always been unreal and at a good price also. 

Please predict your top five:

Dartford 

Aveley 

Chatham Town

Dulwich Hamlet 

Eastbourne Borough 

Now, over to the rest of you! If you are reading this and you’d like to represent your club, please email Ian on [email protected] and he will get back to you as quickly as possible- but you’ll need to do so before Thursday! 

By the way, if you’ve sent through your responses from a Step Four club and haven’t seen them yet, never fear! We’re going to focus mainly on our top flight this week and hold some of the North/South Central/South East responses over until next week, as most of our sides at that level don’t start their League programme for another week.