Bostik Supporters Preview 17/18: Worthing

We asked a supporter from each of our member clubs to answer the same series of questions as part of our preview of the new season. We also asked them to predict how their particular division would finish, from one to 24- and their answers will be revealed in a collection of Supporters Prediction Tables to be released the day before the big kick off.

Here are the answers of Charlie Silver-Burr, representing Worthing.

1. What was your favourite moment of last season?

Even though I wasn't there, it has to be Dagenham and Redbridge away in the FA Trophy. It was pretty much the worst pick out of the hat we could've got seeing as they were doing really well in the Conference National and it was away. I think even the eternal optimists thought that a draw was the best we'd get but Lloyd Dawes scored the crucial goal in a 2-1 win. I was at a Christmas party, but through the wonders of modern technology a friend video streamed it for me on his phone and I was able to see the winning goal live.

Honourable mentions also to our extra time defeat at Sutton where we matched them for huge chunks of the game and the last minute equaliser to Burgess Hill which made us mathematically safe.

2. And what was the worst moment?

Getting hammered 5-0 away at Bognor followed soon after with losing 3-0 at Billericay. Both were very lacklustre performances and the general thought was that it'd be a long season.

3. How will you do this season?

I think we'll do well. We lost a few first teamers over the summer and there was a bit of concern about the strength and numbers of our squad. However, we were able to sign James Fraser from Bognor (lots of goals in the Prem last season), three players from Merstham who all look like they've got lots of potential, and re-signed pacy winger Tony Nwachukwu. The latter looked in great shape from the first kick of preseason. Improving our form at home and not shipping too many goals will be key to improving our position from last year.

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

Billericay, as we'll be interested to see the improvements Tamplin has made to the ground and also see if we can do our bit to derail their presumed march to the title this season. Also, we've been given the pleasure of going to Margate on the Saturday of the Easter weekend so I can imagine an AwayBoys weekender happening.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

It's got to be Dorking's Westhumble ground. The view of Box Hill is wonderful and it's an easy journey. Unfortunately, they didn't have any chips or draught beer last time we were there so that's a black mark against them!

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

Bognor - it's a shame that 'El Coastico' won't be happening this season.

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

The food is fantastic at Woodside and brilliant value. I don't think I've had better cheesy chips anywhere I've been. We've had a new bar built outside so the queues are always small for a beer and the internal bar that was refurbished a few years back still looks in excellent condition. The parking is very limited around the ground so either use the free parking at Worthing College or get the train. The station is only a ten minute walk and you can take a detour via the excellent Brooksteed Alehouse.

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

I've only been supporting Worthing for around three years so I'm sure more stalwart fans would have different choices, but for me it has to be Omar Bugiel. We always knew he had so much potential and he put in maximum effort into increasing his all-round game (especially his temperament). No one was surprised when Forest Green came knocking and to finish his season at Wembley was a joy for all us fans. He's now become not only a league pro but also an international with Lebanon and this is all richly deserved for someone who is also a really nice lad.

9. Finally, predict who will fill the top five positions at the end of the forthcoming season:

Dulwich Hamlet, Billericay Town, Tonbridge Angels, Margate, Wingate & Finchley