Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Great Wakering Rovers

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. Lewis takes us to Great Wakering Rovers- a club so far away that we started this article three weeks ago just to make sure we got there on time!

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
Throughout last season there weren’t many highlights due to battling relegation. One highlight I can pick out is the 3-2 win away to Canvey Island, where we came from 2-0 down to win. Another highlight is obviously surviving the threat of relegation. Thanks to Ian O'Connell (new manager), who came in for the last few games and didn’t lose a game, making us safe for another season.

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

A player that I think will have a big impact on this season is a young talented player called Kevin Kwiek. Watching him in pre season he is lightning-quick, with the potential to go it far. I've never seen a teenager with this much ability.

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

I think we will finish 10th in the league, which will be a huge achievement considering where we finished last season. For me being a superfan last season was tough, and I'm just hoping this season will be a lot better under Ian O'Connell and Joe Flower.

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

There are a lot of matches I'm looking forward to this upcoming season, but mainly going to Lowestoft, Gorleston, Wroxham and New Salamis. These would be my top 4 for the season. I’m hoping for good away days with Great Wakering Rovers.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

My favourite Isthmian North Division away day is Maldon and Tiptree. Their ground looks professional, yet is also very retro, which I like.

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

I consider Basildon United as our biggest rivals, along with Hullbridge Sports- Essex derbies.

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

Some advice for away fans travelling down to Burroughs Park the home of Great Wakering Rovers is to leave earlier than planned- due to traffic and the fact that it is a long distance away. If travelling on public transport, by train either get off at Southend Victoria then get a bus into Wakering or get to Thorpe Bay station which is c2c then get the bus from there- but again I'd leave earlier than planned.

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

My favourite player of all time is the one and only Scott Pethers. Scott is my all-time favourite because every time he played he gave 100% for the club. He was an outstanding midfielder who drove forward and also tracked back on the pitch. He was always our fans favourite on and off the pitch being a true gentleman to all the fans.

9. Who do you predict will finish in the top five this season?
AFC Sudbury, Stowmarket Town, Brentwood Town, Grays Athletic, East Thurrock United.

Thanks Lewis- right, who's next? If you'd like to represent your club, email Ian at townsendaround@gmail.com and he'll be in touch shortly.

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