BetVictor Isthmian League- supporters predictions 2019/20: Heybridge Swifts

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.

Heybridge Swifts were, of course, our North Division Playoff Winners last season, only to be held at Step Four due to a lack of points per game. Chris Daines isn’t quite as annoyed as he could have been.

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

Beating Aveley 2-0 in the Play-Off Semi Final at their ground (with 9 men). It was a cracking game to watch and the first time we had reached a Play-Off Final. Matt Price's goal celebration was awesome!

2. And your worst moment?

Yate Town beating Cinderford Town 3-1 to mean we wouldn't be promoted, despite us winning the Play-Off's (having beaten Maldon & Tiptree). The Playoff outcome was a debacle and I am glad it's back to normal this season but it left a bitter taste.

3. How will you do this season?

I would hope to finish in the Play-Offs but I think it will be even tougher than last season. Histon & Cambridge City will be unknown quantities and there are five or six others to fear.

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

Boxing Day Up't'hill at Maldon & Tiptree and then against them at The Aspen Waite Arena on Easter Monday. A visit to see James at Witham Town is always good fun - I'll meet him for a Burger pre-match and am arranging a trip to Guernsey FC for him.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

I quite like Bury Town - a proper non-league stadium where there is always a decent crowd. Further afield Dereham Town is always a nice place to visit because of the people there.

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

This season Coggeshall Town because of the squad they have built/retained. Grays Athletic are also another to watch under Jim Cooper.

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

Plan your journey well if coming by public transport and pay a visit to "SwiftBet" in the Club Shop.

8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?

John Pollard - 543 games for Swifts - a combative midfielder/defender, our record appearance maker ever (and I have seen every game) and a thoroughly decent guy.

He is now Assistant Manager at Coggeshall Town. I was gutted when he left us for St Albans and he commented he only had one home game per season there - the away game at Heybridge!

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?
Coggeshall Town, Heybridge Swifts, Tilbury, Grays Athletic, Aveley

Right, you've read Chris’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!