BetVictor Isthmian supporters predictions 2019/20- Carshalton Athletic

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.

We’re going to start by heading to the highest-placed club from last season who are still with us, as Alan Johnstone represents those Robins of Carshalton Athletic.

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

Tommy Bradford putting Carshalton Athletic 3-1 up at runaway league leaders Dorking Wanderers. The game finished 3-2, but we ended Dorking’s purple patch after they had won the last 11 league matches in a row.

We played the champions three times and were unbeaten.

2. And your worst moment?

We were away to lowly Burgess Hill Town, and after an absolutely dreadful first half performance in the cold and rain, we found ourselves 3-0 down at the break. Peter Adeniyi and Jacob Mendy scored in the second half to put some respectability on the scoreline, but that first half was the low point of an otherwise great season.

3. How will you do this season?

I think we’ll have a great season. I’m still pinching myself after finishing runners up last season, I really wasn’t expecting that! So can we go one better? I hope so, but it won’t be easy. As I write this, most of the players from last season are back, we have lost 2 players, Kalvin Morath-Gibbs and Jacob Mendy, but we are strengthening the squad. We haven’t really started our pre-season as of yet, but they look strong and are working very hard in the pre-season training.

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

Horsham, Bowers & Pitsea and Cheshunt, as I always look forward to going to new grounds. Looking particularly forward to visiting Horsham, as the ground looks really nice.

Merstham too. I have made a few friends there, and it’s such a friendly club.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

The Dripping Pan, Lewes. I have always liked their ground, it’s so unique. I was happy when we both got promoted a couple of seasons ago.

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

That’s a tough one, It used to be Sutton United, as we’re both in the same borough, but haven’t played each other in a competitive match for quite a few seasons now. Maybe Leatherhead, Kingstonian, Merstham and Corinthian Casuals, just for the pride of Surrey!

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

Get here early, and try the local pub The Hope, it’s a favourite drinking hole for away fans and it is just down the road from the ground. You can enjoy our new clubhouse, always has the football on the big screens.

8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?
Jimmy Bolton, a striker who played for us in the late 80’s and early 90’s He wasn’t the most gifted of players, but he was always in the right time and place to find the net and is still our record goal scorer. Favourite current player is Tommy Bradford, very versatile and can find the net on a regular basis when called upon.

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?
Haringey Borough, Carshalton Athletic, Worthing, Kingstonian, Bognor Regis Town

Right, you've read Alan'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!