Supporters Predictions 24-25: Leatherhead

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. 

It’s Tanner Time. Ryan Herrick gives us a tour of his Leatherhead hopes and dreams.

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

The first highlight which comes to mind was the Play off Semi-Final against Southall. Going 1-0 down, and then to have Tyler Cox curl an effort into the top corner- and to then win on penalties- is one of my best memories in my 8 years supporting the club! The day we beat Raynes Park Vale 4-1 at home also comes to mind. From defense to attack we were always on it and looked like scoring 6/7 (had it not been for Bishop having an unreal game in goal) against a team who were also in playoff positions. Not too bad for a team who passed sideways and backwards!

2. And what was the worst moment?

Definitely the Play Off Final. As good as the whole day was leading up to it, come five o clock my mood had come completely down. My first experience with Play Offs, let alone a Play Off Final, and to come out of it with a loss was devastating.  It was good to head back to the clubhouse afterwards and speak to the players. They were as hurt as the fans were. 

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

Definitely too many to pick but I’ve got a few in mind. Trevan Robinson and Tyler Cox had breakout seasons and are now playing in the National League South. These two were key to us finishing within the top 3 and I’m happy we’ve provided a platform for them to move up. Ibrahim Olutade was back to his usual goalscoring self returning to the club 3/4 years after moving to Maidstone, and definitely had shouts for player of the season despite joining in February! 

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

 Niran Butler has come in during pre season and been immense since the first game. Very solid at the back and will definitely prove to be an important player come next season. 

Kane Fitzgerald andTommy Kavanagh have been very good, pinging the ball across the pitch with minimal effort. My favourite type of players are ball playing midfielders so he’s bound to be one of my favourites next season! Alfie Huckle is their midfield partner as well- he has bundles of energy and doesn’t stop running in midfield, and even contributed with a goal against Dorking Wanderers in pre season (scoring against Wanderers will always impress the fans!). 

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

I think we’ll finish in the Play Off spots but this division next season is too hard to call. It will be the toughest it’s been for a while and I think anyone out of the top 5/6 will be annoyed come the end of the season if they don’t come top. From pre season, our style of play and squad are that of a side capable of finishing within the top spots. Personally I think Farnham Town will win it and the playoff spots are anyones to claim.

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

Definitely Kingstonian, a side we spent a lot of our time playing in the premier division and will be good to play again. It’s usually a good match between us and will be interesting to see how it goes considering how different both sides look compared to our games a few years ago. Also Farnham Town, speaking to Harry Hugo (Farnham chairman) he was telling us about all the work they are doing on and off the pitch and I can’t wait to visit for two reasons: the work they have done on the ground and the team they are building on the pitch. Will be a good visit and game! 

7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

My favourite Isthmian ground would have to be Horsham. A ground where we’ve played a few times and had really good wins (I’m choosing to ignore the FA Cup defeat) and also the stadium as a whole is unreal. Teams have a knack for opening stadiums and playing their first game at the stadium against us. First Dorking, then Horsham, then Uxbridge!

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

Badshot Lea without a doubt! The burgers were unbelievable and some of the best I’ve had in non league football. On the pitch we have signed their Supporters/Players and Managers player of the season, and now we need to sign their catering team! That said, I did have a katsu chicken burger from Ascot United which was also definitely a contender. It was so good I took the idea and made it for myself a week later at home (not quite to Ascot standards though)!

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

Farnham Town, Leatherhead, Kingstonian, Raynes Park Vale, Southall

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.