Bostik Supporters Predictions 18/19: Carshalton Athletic

We asked supporters of our Bostik League clubs to preview the new season, reflect on the old and predict the final outcome. Their predicted 1-20 (or 22) will be worked into a final table which you will see just before the big kick off.

James Barrett-Sterling has only just stopped celebrating Carshalton’s success of last season, and here comes another one!

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

The obvious one was seeing the squad and management finally lift the Bostik South title after thumping VCD Athletic 7-0 on the final day. The club really deserved that moment after losing only two league games from the start of November. There were sweet little moments scattered throughout too like seeing us beat teams we tended to struggle against in previous years, or seeing some of the finest football I’ve ever seen played in 30+ years of watching the game.

Also, although sad to see him leave, it was very pleasing to see Mickel Miller move several steps up and become a professional footballer. He was brave enough to move to Scotland and join Hamilton Academical after coming through the ranks at Carshalton and it’s been great to see him involved with the first-team from the off.

2. And your worst moment?

I guess, pound for pound, it was the immediate aftermath following defeat against Sittingbourne in our penultimate game. We knew any sort of win would crown us champions but, despite going 1-0 up early doors, our hosts ran out 3-1 winners and left us feeling desolated. Thankfully closest rivals Lewes also lost that day meaning our destiny was still in our own hands, but it was a very sobering moment.

3. How will you do this season?

I expect the majority of the title-winning squad to be retained, which will go a long way to continuing manager Peter Adeniyi’s forward-thinking philosophy, so I’m confident we can hold our own in the Bostik Premier. A decent cup run in one of the FA competitions wouldn’t be sniffed at however!

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

While it’s going to be fun revisiting places from the last time we were in the Premier, I’m personally looking forward to going to clubs like Brightlingsea Regent, Potters Bar Town and Haringey Borough for the first time. It’ll also be great lock horns again with nearby rivals like Kingstonian, Leatherhead and Merstham.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

I’ll be looking forward to checking out Dorking Wanderers’ new ground, plus I always enjoy going to the likes of Bognor Regis Town and Lewes. I’ll also be personally visiting six grounds for the first-ever time, which is always an exciting prospect.

6. Who do you consider your biggest rivals- and why?

Considering the race we had for the Bostik South title last season, and now we meet again on the first day of this season, most of us will anticipate playing Lewes again this season. We’ve also got the likes of Leatherhead, Corinthian Casuals, Kingstonian and Merstham that will always be tasty encounters.

7. What advice would you give to any away supporter visiting you for the first time?

Be prepared to see your team play against a side that loves to keep the ball on the deck. Also, don't overindulge before arriving - leave room for our tasty burgers and real ales!

8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?

This is a difficult question – I’ve been fortunate to see so many good players come and go. Come find me at a game and I’ll wax lyrical on the subject for you!

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?

AFC Hornchurch, Bishop’s Stortford, Dorking Wanderers, Enfield Town, Bognor Regis Town