Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 25-26: Horndean

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. Robert brings us a view from Horndean.

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

Although we won our opening three league fixtures, our 4-0 home victory vs Hartley Wintney in April virtually secured our league status following a dreadful run of form. It was a huge relief and also pleasing for our manager Shaun Hale, who took over after Christmas and had to deal with some really tough situations. Lesser men would have walked away!

And what was the worst moment?

Two stick out for me, our 8-0 drubbing away to Uxbridge just before Xmas (our then manager Michael Birmingham departed for Bognor following the defeat) and the 6-2 defeat at home to South Park towards the end of the season. Although at the time below us in the table, they were 2-0 up going into the 2nd half when our keeper "Jocko" Scott was sent off for an inappropriate comment to the referee (the truth hurts!) and ended up in a rout! The only occasion I've left a game early!

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

Our left back Cade Dyer impressed me most last season. Cade really stepped up after a tough first season in the South East Division. Unfortunately he has now joined newly promoted AFC Portchester!

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

Brandon Chebby will be key for the Deans this season. Signed in March from the Wessex League, he showed his potential with an impressive hat-trick against Hartley Wintney. Has looked really sharp in pre-season.

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

Mid-table or below but safely above relegation! Shaun and his team have had to rebuild a completely new squad this season. A lot of hungry young players with a sprinkling of experience, we may surprise a few.

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

We have many local "derbies" to look forward to this season, with AFC Portchester and Fareham Town being promoted and Bognor moving across following relegation. Added to Moneyfields who had a superb first season in the South Central, these could all be "spicy" affairs, featuring quite a few ex Dean's players! We hope this will attract some bumper crowds to the Kingsmere Group Stadium too!

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Not just because we won there, but I really enjoyed visiting Binfield. A very friendly, hospitable club with a very smart set up and a decent playing surface (not 3G!)

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

Excellent gourmet burgers at Kingstonian (Raynes Park Vale)- and Hanworth Villa was also very good.

Who do you think will finish in the top five?  

 Hayes & Yeading United, Leatherhead, Hanworth Villa, Kingstonian, Hendon

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.