Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 26-27: AFC Portchester

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 shortly.

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

It certainly was a memorable experience for our first year at Step 4. We had a nice run in the FA trophy at the start of the season, beating Step 3 Taunton at home as well as almost taking Wimborne to extra time. For me it was getting to visit so many new grounds and clubs for the first time with Portchy. Many were very welcoming but our days out at Hendon, Hanworth and Kingstonian stood out to me as the most welcoming and passionate supporters. 

And what was the worst moment?

Either losing on penalties to Westfield in the play off semi finals or that 5-4 loss to Bognor Regis on the opening day after being 4-1 up - that was definitely a wake up and welcome to Step 4 moment.

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

Jack Lee our talismanic centre back was an absolute warrior all season - wearing his heart on his sleeve. He even went on a goal scoring run in the November to try and give our strikers a run for their money. 

Moving on to your current squad - which players do you think will make a big impact during the 26/27 campaign?

I think winger Destiny Ojo has the potential to be a full back’s nightmare in this league. He showed real promise when we signed him for the 25/26 final run in. Hopefully with a full pre season and a run in the team his contribution of goals and assists could be vital as the team continues to raise the standard of what is possible in this league. 

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

After a slower start and adjustment period last season we went on a winning a strong run between late December to mid March where we only lost to Leatherhead. It’s showed- along with our play off spot finish- that we certainly can compete at this level. I certainly think the aim has got to be to get into those promotion spots once again and mix it at the top of the table. We are playing our home games at another stadium until October whilst our current ground is renovated. If we can get through those first few months still in a strong position in the league then game on! 

If you could choose a song for your side to run our to, what would it be- and why?

Powerman 5000 - Drop the Bombshell. Great tune to run to and get you ready to run through walls! 

From all the opposition players you watched last season, which one would you love to see in your side- and why?

I can’t remember his name but Hanworth Villa had a colossus of a centre back who was a brick wall at the back when we played them at home late in the season and could play too. 

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

I didn’t get to all of the grounds last season with some still to do this season but I think Hayes and Yeading’s ground had a great main stand- and had the bonus of all the Ted Lasso filming set still being in place for when we visited. But for an away day Raynes Park Vale's ground was a great day out. It’s not often you can buy steak at football and with a few cool pubs just a short walk into the town it’s one worth visiting. 

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

Outside of Raynes Park Vale we have to give Hanworth Villa a mention - a gourmet burger which I think made some of our fans go back for a second. 

Please predict your top five:

Westfield 

Hayes and Yeading Utd

AFC Portchester

Winchester City

Southall 

Thanks to all supporters who have contributed to this feature- we’ll run the predicted tables for Step Four from Thursday to Saturday, and we’ll continue running your responses this week and next.