Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 2020-21: Heybridge Swifts

We asked supporters of our 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.

Chris Daines takes us to the black and white half of Maldon, as we hear all about the world of Pitching In North Division Heybridge Swifts.

1. How do you feel about the return of football?

I am very happy that football (with fans) has returned. I have some mixed feelings as we have seen a massive change in players and another Manager change; to put it into context of the sixteen players from our last fixture v Cambridge City on March 7th, we have just one of the starting X1 and two of the subs remaining.

The impact of COVID cost us the opportunity of another potential play-off success and cost the Club significantly in terms of finance through lost bookings/events. I am sure our Board have had to take some difficult financial decisions which in some cases have meant that players have decided to move elsewhere. I wish those who have stepped up levels good luck but it is clear that some clubs have significant backing to attract some of our former fans favourites.

2. The world has changed enormously since you were last able to watch a live football match. Will the pandemic change your approach to watching the game- will you attend as many matches as you used to, and spend as much time at the ground/in the clubhouse, etc?

I watch every game home and away and have only missed around 10 games in nearly 36 seasons. I will be there again home and away, supporting my beloved Swifts and supporting other Clubs financially through my attendance. My only concern is whether restrictions on numbers might impact!

3. Last season had many exciting moments before its premature end. What was your favourite moment?

I enjoyed the first 89 minutes of the away game at Canvey Island when we were leading 4-2. It was a great performance that day, but sadly we conceded two goals in the last minute to make it 4-4. Thankfully there wasn't another five minutes as we would have probably lost 5-4! (At least four departees will be in Canvey colours when we visit this season)

4. And what was your worst moment?

Aside from the last minute drama at Canvey, I'd pick either a 5-0 defeat away at Aveley or the 5-2 away FA Cup defeat against Grays Athletic (also at Aveley!).

5. How will you do this season?

With all the changes (coupled with the apparent strengthening of other Clubs), I expect a mid-table position to be a reasonable expectation.

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

Obviously the derby games with Maldon & Tiptree and Witham Town, but the clubs where former players have moved will be interesting games to watch.

7. What is your favourite away ground?

I like visiting new Clubs (but that won't be the case this year) so I guess I'll stick with Dereham Town as a favourite - I often reward long suffering Mrs D with a weekend away when we go there! They are a great Club and great people - the only problem is they play in Black & White and I once berated a player shooting over in the first minute (only to be informed that we were playing in Red that day!). Thankfully they didn't score as it would have been even more embarrassing cheering a goal for the home side!

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

Our neighbours from up't'hill. Local bragging rights are important - we've had the upper hand for the majority of recent seasons but I'll concede that they well and truly had it last season.

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

Prepare well if coming by public transport - the bus service (No 90) from Witham is pretty good. Come and visit our newly refurbished bar facility of which we are very proud.

The Black and White Army look forward to welcoming all visiting fans.

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

Possibly the most difficult question! I have seen hundreds of players come and go. I'll go with John Pollard - our record appearance maker with 543 games - I've seen every game he played. We've been blessed with many great players and honourable mentions are for Kingsley Banks, Mitchell Springett, Luke Callander, Lewis Godbold, Harrison Chatting, Matt Price and Joan Luque.

Any player who sports the Black and White stripes will always get my wholehearted support.

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

Tilbury, Cambridge City, Canvey Island, Aveley, Brentwood Town

Would you like to represent your club? Get in touch now and we'll send you the details. Email Ian on townsendaround@gmail.co.uk.