Supporters Predictions 24-25: Ashford United

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. 

Brendan Morrissey looks forward with optimism at the Nuts and Bolts chances this season. 

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

The highlight was starting a new season with a new manager who was playing a different style of football which was more to feet with less long balls and long throw ins which we had got used to, the football style was fresh to us and we were getting results despite a poor period of pre season.

2. And what was the worst moment?

Tough to pick one really, there were so many, from comedic pre season, to manager sacking, to being told half way through the season the club had been sold and that the club would put a holding team in to appraise the squad and gauge what was needed for next season, not exactly with the season ticket holders interest at heart, team faded, supporters waned and poor results followed.

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

I do not think anyone stood out in a poor season by our previous standards, but for me Adem Ramadan, who broke his leg badly on a Tuesday evening at Hythe Town. Within a week or so he still turned up week after week to watch his team play, often badly. To see him putting in hard yards before games and to get back ready for the last couple of games of the season was nothing short of heroic. In pre season he has looked sharp and loving his football again.

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

Well at the moment this is a difficult on as the new manager has heavily shuffled the pack with many new players in and at the time of writing some very changeable sets of 11 on the pitch, and still some very good looking players unconfirmed whether signed or not.  I would probably on that basis go with Gary Lockyer, who has returned and is looking at some club records, and with an improved squad over last year I am sure he can shine if he gets good service.

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

Well it’s always difficult to judge that one! I am in no doubt that we have this season a better squad than last, we also have had a proper pre-season with no forced ground sharing, but a better set of players does not always make for better team performances. A new manager who would admit he is still gathering experience in management. The other big unknown is how will other teams will fare, I fully expect the league to be more competitive this coming season compared to last. The new owners have said no pressure for promotion other than over the next 6 years. I expect this season to be one where we will hope to be in the play off places by the end, but only if all goes well and the side gels as it should.

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

I always enjoy Hythe and Sittingbourne as the fans are always welcoming and competitive and know their non league football. Sittingbourne I believe will be up there this season and play attacking football so should be a good game.

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Sevenoaks Town- easy to get to and a friendly host.

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

I tend to eat before I get there so can’t really judge to be honest.

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

Ramsgate, Sittingbourne, Herne Bay, Margate, Ashford United

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.