Bostik Supporters Predictions 18/19: Merstham

By Ian Townsend

Merstham fan Mitch Chatfield says that if you're going to Merstham, you need to visit the doctors!

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.

Mitch tells you all about the Moatsiders. And gives praise to his dad!

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

My favourite moment of last season has to be beating Dulwich Hamlet away last season. Lucky to only be 1-0 down at half time and came away 2-1 winners with two goals from Charlie Penny, who had just returned from a year out of football due to a major injury.

2. And your worst moment?

The worst moment of the last season was our home defeat to Staines Town. Possibly the worst I’ve seen us play in recent years against a very strong Staines which led to an embarrassing 5-1 defeat.
3. How will you do this season?

This season will be interesting for us... I think we have recruited well throughout the summer (especially defensively), adding experience to what has previously been a youthful side. I feel we are up there with the best footballing sides in the league and with added strength defensively I believe we have a chance to compete at the top end of the table. I would be happy with a top 8 finish, but would love to see us make the play-offs!

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

The league has massively changed this year due to the restructuring and I feel promotions and relegations have brought back some of the best grounds/pitches at this level. I’m looking forward to visiting Bognor Regis, one of the best pitches at this level and I feel this will suit our style of play.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

Has to be Dulwich Hamlet away... They’re very well supported and it always makes for a great atmosphere.

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

Locally our biggest rivals have to be South Park, two of the most successful clubs in Surrey in recent years with promotions and famous FA Cup/Trophy runs. Beating them 6-0 in the Surrey Senior Cup last season was a great achievement for all at Merstham.

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

There isn’t a great deal of advice to give for away support to Merstham other than where to park your car! The car park isn’t the biggest and is usually filled way before kick off. So you’re best to park in the Doctors car park (next door to the ground) which is free of charge and empty during weekends and evenings.

8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?
My all time favourite Merstham player...this could be one of many, but I’ll go with my dad!

Ian Chatfield (GK)

Part of the side that won the Combined counties with ease in 2007-2008. Conceding only 21 league goals in 41 games.

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?
Kingstonian, Margate, Dorking Wanderers, Folkestone Invicta, Enfield Town

Where next?

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Merstham Video playlist

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