Bostik Supporters Predictions 18/19: Canvey Island

We asked supporters of our Bostik 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.

Jonathan Andrews takes us on a trip to the seaside, as he reflects on the positives and negatives of last season whilst showing you his burnt bits!

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

There were a few standouts, like coming back from 2-0 down with ten men to draw at Soham or the crazy 6-3 victory at Grays. However I think the playoff Semi away at Bowers & Pitsea probably wins out. The game was a fantastic contest between both sides and we played some of the best football I've seen us play in my time as a supporter at Canvey. We made plenty of noise behind the goal to back our team too.

2. And your worst moment?

Losing the eventual playoff final to Haringey Borough. With all respect to them, they edged the day overall but it was bitter disappointment for everyone who had traveled up from the Island. Plus I think we all got horribly sunburnt!

3. How will you do this season?

I think promotion will be a must for the team. If we can improve on our consistency and put in a solid shift then there's no reason that isn't possible. The North Division will be tough again of course, but we've got a really good core to our team right now and Danny and the crew behind the scenes have recruited well. Hopefully our boys can light up the league!

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

The trips to Suffolk are always enjoyable. Soham Town Rangers and AFC Sudbury were two of my favourite days out last season. The promoted clubs like Cogeshall and Felixstowe will also be fun new experiences.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

AFC Sudbury is always a great place to visit. The ground is a beauty with some nice cover behind the goals. Their facilities are top notch so credit to them.

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

There seem to be a few deep-rooted ones with Canvey! Normally Billericay Town or our neighbours Concord Rangers are considered our most fierce rivals, but to be fair to them they are both doing well and in National League South- so unless we get them in the cup it might be a while until that ignites again.
In the North, it would probably be Grays. There's a lot of history from our Conference days in that one. Though both clubs aren't what they used to be, on the pitch and supporter wise.
I think Heybridge Swifts young fan base seem to be starting a rivalry with everyone based on last season, too!

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

Make a day out of it! I may be biased because I live here but Canvey is a great place to visit. The seafront has had a bit of a renovation and our clubhouse is a good place for a drink before and after the game. If you’re travelling by public transport though, the ground is a bit of a distance away so make sure you know where you're going.

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

I've heard the stories of all the greats and favourites from the past like Nicky Rugg, Danny Potter and Jason Hallett, but seeing as I've only been to watch the club for two seasons I'm going to pick our current captain Sam Collins. Even though he was with our rivals previously, the man has worn a Canvey shirt with pride ever since he joined. He thanks us for the support we try giving them week in, week out too.

9. Who will be in the top five at the end of the season?

Canvey Island, Heybridge Swifts, Aveley, Bowers & Pitsea, Cogeshall Town