Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Basildon United

We're asking fans from each of our clubs to answer a series of questions about the past, present and future- and to predict the final league table for 22-23. We’re off to Basildon, home of that peculiar statue and our very own Basildon United. Andrew is our guide.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
Going to Tilbury on Saturday 15th April, and we needed something out of the game to fight off pending relegation. The first 10 minutes we could have been 2 down, but then the game changed and we banged in 5 first half goals and went on to win the game 5-2. That result kept us up.

2. Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 2022-23?

Jake Chaplin and Flavio Jumo have been outstanding in midfield in preseason, and Charlie Heatley has been brilliant up front. I’m really hoping these 3 will make a massive impact for our new look team this season.

3. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?

I know we must be everyone's favourites to go down, so fingers crossed we could be a surprise package. But staying up is our main objective this season.

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

Going to Lowestoft where Gorleston also play, and also Wroxham. These are new grounds to visit this season.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?
This is a difficult question, so have gone for three. AFC Sudbury, Bury Town and Felixstowe & Walton United. All lovely grounds and they make you feel really welcome.

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

It's got to be Billericay and Bowers, as we have had some serious tussles over the years in local derbies.

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

You need to plan your journey to the ground, as we are a good 20 minutes walk away from the nearest bus route- but the bus route does take you to Basildon railway station.

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

It’s got to be Marcus Bowers, because his wonder free kick got us back in to the Isthmian League after a 30 year wait.
9. Who do you predict will finish in the top five this season?

Brentwood Town, AFC Sudbury, Grays Athletic, Lowestoft Town, Hashtag United

Thanks Andrew! We’re about to close this feature and print the predicted tables- so if you asked for the questions and haven’t yet sent them back, please hurry! Predicted tables will be posted from Wednesday.

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