BetVictor Isthmian League- supporters predictions 2019/20: Waltham Abbey

We asked supporters of our BetVictor Isthmian League clubs to preview the new season, reflect on the old and predict the final outcome. Their predicted 1-20 (or 22) will be worked into a final table which you will see just before the big kick off.

Waltham Abbey were highly fancied last season but a mid-campaign managerial departure led to uncertainty which saw them fall just short. Will the forthcoming campaign be better? Joseph Gunn is our first Abbott, and we might have another one along later!

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

We played Bedfont Sports and won the game 2-1- which, at the time, kept our promotion playoff hopes alive. It was 1-1 in the 2nd half and one of Abbeys attempts was cleared off the line heroically by the keeper. It looked like the game would end in frustration but in the 87th minute we had a corner and Rimmel Daniel tapped it in. The crowd went wild including me. We deserved the win and got it when it mattered.

2. And your worst moment?

Losing 2-1 to Lea Valley rivals Cheshunt was the worst day in my opinion. We created many more chances than Cheshunt and they had 10 men, but due to their being more clinical in front of goal they earned all 3 points.

3. How will you do this season?

I think Abbey could have a decent season if we play to the best of our capabilities. Finishing 9th last season was decent with Stimson (AFC Hornchurch) and current manager Spencer really improving the team throughout the last campaign. I reckon we will finish 7th but we could easily grasp the playoffs if we play well enough. Our squad has the potential to do great things so I feel very optimistic this season.

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

I’m looking forward to playing Hertford and Ware, because they are local teams not too far from the Abbey so are kind of rivals. The games are usually very entertaining and high scoring against them so it will be fun to watch.
5. What is your favourite away ground?

My favourite away ground is Harlow Town because the atmosphere and stadium in general are really good, with passionate supporters all over the place. The facilities are nice- so it will be great, but difficult at the same time, playing Harlow on their own patch. Should be a good game though.

6. Who do you consider your biggest rivals- and why?

We don’t have many rivals from the South Central Division but I guess Ware and Hertford are the biggest ones as we battle for the A10. Also, recently relegated Harlow are rivals and we will be looking to increase their frustrations by beating them (fingers crossed).

7. What advice would you give to any away supporter visiting you for the first time?

Make sure to cheer on your team and encourage them whatever the score. Always believe in your team whatever the score as football is unpredictable and can change in an instant.

8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?
It’s a difficult one, but for me it has to be Christian Assombalonga. I started watching Waltham Abbey in 2016 and he scored in a game that kept us up by a point. He left to join Dagenham and Redbridge in the 16/17 season but returned straight away a season later. In the 18/19 season he was at another club but joined Abbey for a 3rd spell halfway through. He always comes back once he leaves and this aside, he is a great striker and has scored important goals for down the years. Christian is the game changer and I hope he stays for the upcoming season.

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?
Tooting and Mitcham United, Harlow Town, Bracknell Town, Staines Town, Chertsey Town.

Right, you've read Joseph’s thoughts, do you want to be next? If you'd like to represent your club, then please send an email to townsendaround@gmail.com and we shall see what we can do!