Pitching In Isthmian League- supporters predictions 2021-22: Herne Bay

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. We’re back in Kent, and James Aylward is our guide to Herne Bay.

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

As mentioned, there wasn’t much of a season- but in that short spell of games we had some very entertaining games. The biggest highlight that stands out to me was Whitehawk at home. 1-0 down from an own goal, and then at 82 mins captain- and centre-back- Laurence Harvey got an equaliser. The same player then scored from a rebound after we hit the bar from a freekick to put us in the lead in the 90th minute, and then we got a third at 94mins to secure the win. All that as well as a heated, end-to-end game, the odd yellow card, and a red card for the away team. A very exciting game.

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

We have made some new signings but in particular I expect Adem Ramadan and Jack Parter are two players who I think are really going to impact our season. We still have the likes of Zak Ansah who is a proven goal scorer, and Kieron Campbell who is a nightmare for fullbacks and a fan favourite.

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

The last time we actually had a chance to play a run of games we were in form, winning game after game and climbing the league into the play off positions. Realistically that is the minimum I expect again this season. I believe we will be fighting for those top spots.

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

I’m a big fan of away games as it makes a good day out and is always a good laugh. We have a fun fan base who travel, so any game is enjoyable. I also look forward to all the local derbies, such Sittingbourne, Faversham Town, Whitstable Town and Ramsgate at home. Lancing away will be an interesting one too as I’ve never been there.

5. What is your favourite away ground?

I judge my away grounds on their food- so make sure that’s decent and I’ll like it! My favourite away days are again the local derbies and I also look forward to VCD away.
6. Who do you consider your biggest rivals- and why?

At this point I’d be expected to say Whitstable Town, what with them being our most local derby game, but I feel like our biggest rivals are the ones at the top of the league. Hastings United have been one of the teams to beat in the last couple of seasons and I believe we can beat them. It’s been very close in the last few meetings and having them away for the first game of the season couldn’t be a better way to start the league.

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

Make a day of it. We have a decent town really and if you’re one of the many teams not by the coast then a visit to the seafront for lunch and a walk on the pier and along the promenade would be a good idea. As for the ground itself it’s located 10 minutes walk from the train station and 5 minutes off the dual carriageway so very easy to get to in terms of travel.

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

This my 6th season following Herne Bay home and away, I only went to the odd game before that. I have seen lots of fan favourites come and go but for me the one player that sticks out is Ronald Sobowale. He scored some incredible goals for us and was one of the most entertaining players to watch. Fast, strong, the ball sticks to his feet with an incredible finish too.

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

Hastings United, Cray Valley PM, Whitehawk, Herne Bay, Hythe Town

Follow the Pitching In Isthmian League on Instagram. Head here or search for theisthmianleague on your app. We're also on Facebook and Twitter.