Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 25-26: Carshalton Athletic

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. Tom takes on the role of our Athletic authority!

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

Overall, it was a successful season for us, a 7th place finish with our highest points total for a number of years, as well as runs to the 4th qualifying round of the FA Cup, and the semi final of the Surrey Senior Cup. My highlights include beating then leaders Dover 3 - 1 on their own turf on a cold February afternoon, beating Melksham at home in the FA Cup 3rd Qualifying round with a last minute penalty to keep the Wembley dream alive, and a last minute Fabio Saraiva screamer at home to Billericay to win 4 - 3, from 3 - 1 down!
 

And what was the worst moment?

Losing 4 games in a row between Boxing Day and 4th January was a big blow to us, we didn't turn up in these games and it really put us on the back foot in the playoff race.
 

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

Luke Read was my player of the season, really solid at the back, good going forward, and popped up with the odd important goal! A proper defender who always fights for the badge!
 

Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 25-26 campaign?

I'm looking forward to seeing how forward Kola Salami gets on this season, he finished last season strongly, and has scored a few already in pre-season. Definitely one to watch! Kola, Bryan Ifeanyi and Nabeel Ghannam will be a nightmare for defenders this year.
 

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

On paper, the league looks stronger than last season, so it's going to be a tough ask to make the playoffs, however we've kept the nucleus of our squad together including our top scorer David Smith, so I think we will be in and around the playoff race and will have a good chance of taking the last playoff spot. Hopefully we can also have some good runs in the cup competitions as well.
 

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

Cray Valley PM away on the opening day is going to be a big one! They've got the better of us in recent years, but we've looked fit in pre-season, so hopefully we can catch them cold! Also looking forward to a trip to Dulwich Hamlet on Easter Monday.
 

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

The Dripping Pan, Lewes. Iconic football ground! I also like the setup at Billericay and Hastings United.
 

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

Chichester City's double chicken burger and chips, which still gets talked about to this day!
 

Who do you think will finish in the top five?  

 Billericay Town, Dartford, St Albans City, Chatham Town, Carshalton Athletic

If you’re reading this and would like to represent your club, please drop an email to Ian at [email protected] and he’ll be in touch.