Pitching In Isthmian League- supporters predictions 2021-22: Phoenix Sports

We asked supporters of our Pitching In 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. Billy Sullivan represents those mythical winged sporting birds at the Mayplace Ground.

1. Thinking about last season- what there was of it- were there any highlights for you?

The highlight of last season for me was the Lancing vs Phoenix FA Cup game… It took us ages to get down to the game due to traffic but when we got there we witnessed an amazing game of footbal The game ended 3-3 on the night after extra time, and the penalty shootout ended 11-10 in favour of Phoenix- including a goal for Steven Phillips (the goalkeeper)! Bizarre way to start the season after such a long pandemic!

2. Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 2021-22 campaign?

For this 2021-22 campaign I’m looking forward to seeing what the boys can do once again. It’s hard to pick one individual player who will have a major impact because every person has to perform, however if I have to choose it would be James Dyer. I’ve had the pleasure of playing alongside him in the Phoenix youth setup and he is a very special player. It just proves how good Phoenix Sports Youth setup is as we have produced so many players over the years who have moved up the football pyramid.

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

Well we are always written off by other sides in the division but Phoenix Sports have never finished lower than 11th in a full season. I think that’s due to our teamwork as we’ve always relied on the team performing and not individuals, so I think we can replicate another top half finish this year.

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

It won’t come as a surprise to say VCD! The club from down the road, it is always a tense game and neither side will want to lose. So I’m definitely going to be cheering the side on against them.

Another club I look forward to watching are Hastings United. They are always the team you want to beat in this division, as they are one of the strongest- and their ground is amazing.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

It’s between Hastings United and Sevenoak Hastings has that old-school feel about it and the noise their fans make is amazing! However Sevenoaks Town have a lovely, tidy ground and whenever I have been there I have always enjoyed it. But my decision is Hastings United.
6. Who do you consider your biggest rivals- and why?

I mentioned them in my answer for the 4th question… VCD Athletic! Due to how close we are it’s always going to be a tough, competitive game between the two and this year I’m sure it will be the same.

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

My advice would be get inside the bar and speak to, well, anyone! We have such amazing groups of people down at Phoenix Sports- from the team to the board members to the staff and the supporters. You will always feel welcome and you probably won’t want to leave the bar once you’ve got talking.

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

There are so many to choose from. I suppose it’s between two and it’s impossible to choose one because:

a) Steven Phillips is an unbelievable goalkeeper and one of the best in the division and has provided his service for almost 10 years
b) Ryan Andrews has been with club for almost 10 years and has always been a role model for younger players at Phoenix.

So I’m going to cheat and have two choices for my favourite player of all time.

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

Hastings United, Whitehawk, Cray Valley PM, Ashford United, Herne Bay

Right, who’s next? If you’d like to represent your club, email Ian on townsendaround@gmail.com

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