Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 26-27: Grays 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.  Stewart Goshawk and Richard Medhurst brings us some Athletic news

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

Sadly few and far between.  The two home wins against Bowers and Wroxham towards the end of season effectively secured our place in the division and we breathed a collective sigh of relief.  The early FA Trophy win against Felixstowe & Walton also brought some cheer - unexpected as they'd turned us over in the league just a couple of weeks earlier.

And what was the worst moment?

The 95th minute deflected equaliser in the FA Cup away at Hitchin was just cruel, especially as we went on to lose the replay.  The two league defeats to Heybridge were also utterly depressing - not to say anything against our friends from the opposition but we just didn't turn up in either game where we hoped for three points each time.

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

Oscar Shelvey-Negus literally shed blood for the cause on regular occasions.  His 100% commitment was an example to any player and he also scored his share of goals from midfield.  

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

We have signed some real quality mixed with experience  - Connor Hogan, Rob Harvey and Ollie Muldoon.  We hope that collectively they will have a big say.  Up front, Gabriel Chapps could surprise a few if he gets on a scoring run. There are also one or two young players coming through who've had time at league academies.  They could have a spark of something special. 

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

After the near-trauma of last season, we'll take mid-table anonymity.  But this is going to be a very tight division and many clubs could readily push for a playoff place.  

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

We've played John Denver's "Country Roads Take Me Home" just before kick-off at every home game for about the last twenty years.  But that aside how about something from south Essex boys Depeche Mode like "Just Can't Get Enough" - which is surely how we all feel about our own side.

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

We've always admired Felixstowe's keeper, Harry Wright.  And who wouldn't want the skill of Terrel Egbri in their side.

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Wroxham is a favourite - lovely setting, hospitable people and good beer.  Outside of 1 North, although we haven't been there for some years now, St Albans was always a good place to visit.

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

For us every game is away, so are we allowed to nominate our groundshare at Tilbury.  Best burgers in the league bar none.  Newmarket also score highly.

Please predict your top five:

Canvey Island

Felixstowe & Walton United

Cambridge City

Gorleston

Redbridge