Bostik Supporters Preview 17/18: Hertford Town

We asked a supporter from each of our member clubs to answer the same series of questions as part of our preview of the new season. We also asked them to predict how their particular division would finish, from one to 24- and their answers will be revealed in a collection of Supporters Prediction Tables to be released the day before the big kick off.

Here are the answers of Nathan Hobley, of North Division new boys Hertford Town.

What was your favourite moment of last season?

My favourite moment has to be when we played London Colney in the run up to Christmas, at home. Not only was I overwhelmed because we were beating the league leaders; I had never experienced such a fabulous atmosphere before at a grassroots game. In particular, my favourite moment was when Tommy Wade tapped in our second goal and vaulted over the fence into the Stable End. The home crowd erupted with delight and despite being completely drenched in beer, it was by far the most exciting thing I had ever witnessed at a game before. Even though Tommy Wade was booked, it was completely worth it…

And what was the worst moment?

My lowest point of last season was when we were beaten 1-0 by Welwyn Garden City FC. The defeat meant we could no longer catch London Colney in the race to the title. Despite this, the boys continued to perform exceptionally well, beating Broxbourne FC 5-0 in our penultimate game and beating Berkhamsted FC 1-0 in our final game.

How will you do this season?

Based on the performances I’ve seen from the Blues in pre-season friendlies, I believe we will do well this season. I’d like to think that we will finish in the middle to the top half of the table. Bostik football is quite a step up from the SSML, but I presume the boys will continue to fight hard and play quality football. With new signings such as Michael Toner and Daniel Bond, the Blues continue to look ever more threatening up front and in midfield. The defence also looks increasingly strong with new signings such as Jason Beck and Johnny Butler making the back line even more powerful. New goalkeeper Charlie Mann has shone particularly in Pre-Season, pulling off some spectacular saves, especially in our game against Chalfont St Peter FC.

Which matches are you most looking forward to and why?

I am most looking forward to our main three local derbies: Ware, Cheshunt and Potters Bar FC. In particular our game against Ware. As I have only been supporting the Blues for two seasons, I have not yet witnessed a Ware and Hertford derby, but I have been promised the atmosphere is at its peak when the two teams meet…

What is your favourite away ground?

So far, my favourite away ground has been the Broadwater ground, the home of Berkhamsted FC. The atmosphere was great between the Home and Away fans and it was a nice conclusion to the season playing there. I am looking forward to visiting many of the new grounds this season now we have made the step up to the Bostik league.

Who do you consider to be your biggest rivals and why?

Either Hoddesdon or Ware FC. Hoddesdon away was always an exciting game to attend as the local derby always promised a great game of football. The two teams always step up when they play each other, concluding in some great matches. And as I mentioned earlier, Ware FC are our closest of the local derbies and always promise for some great football and atmosphere.

What advice would you give to an away supporter visiting you for the first time?

Make lots of noise! The more and louder you sing (even if there isn’t many of you), the better the atmosphere is! So bring drums, horns and (most importantly) yourselves and help make the ambience as great as possible.

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

In all honesty, I found this the most challenging question to answer. Each and every single one of the players are talented in their individual roles on the pitch, and all are friendly and easy to talk to off the pitch. If I had to pick my very favourite though, it would be Tommy ‘Wade Wade Wade’ who scored 22 goals last season winning the golden boot.

9. Finally, predict who will fill the top five positions at the end of the forthcoming season:

Canvey Island, Maldon & Tiptree, Bowers & Pitsea, AFC Sudbury, Grays Athletic