Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Grays Athletic

By Ian Townsend

We're off to Grays, in the company of Stewart Goshawk


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. Grays Athletic are up next, Stewart Goshawk your guide.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
Generally, given our limited resources, that we were able to sustain a push for the play-offs so deep into the season (even if we fell short in the end). Specifically, a slap-up fish & chip lunch on the Felixstowe seafront and then watching a 1-0 win, holding on with nine men. And an honourable mention for the occasion one of our players got booked for leaving the pitch without the ref's permission (whilst the trainer was treating another player) to go and relieve himself. An event now immortalised in song by our supporters choir.

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

Signing Sam Bantick up front is a real statement of intent and he looks sharp pre-season. And Josh Osude, who destroyed us with his pace last season. We've also got a number of youth squad players, who've played toget.her for several years and look very promising. One or two of them could be real surprise packages

Stewart Goshawk- Grays Athletic

Stewart Goshawk- Grays Athletic

3. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?
Hopeful that we can learn from last year's heartbreak of dropping out of the play-offs just before the end of the season, and hold on in there this time. And a cup run would be good, after several recent memorable under-performances.

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

Always look down the fixture list first for the new teams and grounds - or places we've not been to for years. We haven't travelled to Lowestoft since 2016 and this season we get to go twice! Also looking forward to meeting the folk at New Salamis - and hearing about their rise up the pyramid.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

I always enjoy the trip to AFC Sudbury. Ground set in pleasant surroundings, great clubhouse, good people. Outside of our division, Lewes is a great venue.

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

Has to be Tilbury - one of the longest-standing local footballing rivalries anywhere in the world, stretching back to the early 1900s. For most supporters of both sides, it's personal. Two draws in the league last season, so bragging rights are up for grabs.

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

Please remember that we groundshare at Aveley FC. Since we lost our historic home at the Recreation Ground in Grays, more than ten years ago now, we have been nomadic, and are very grateful to the Aveley committee for taking us in. And we are a supporter-owned club, involving the local community as much as we can. So please buy a programme and some raffle tickets - that income literally helps us survive.

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

For me, it's Dennis Oli - pace, power, elegance and a true gentleman with it. A lynchpin of the greatest team we ever had, back in the mid 2000s. (185 appearances, 36 goals and only 2 yellow cards !). Also a mention to our centre forward of the 1980s and one of the club's "Hall of Fame" members, Micky Welsh, who we learned died midway through last season, taken far too young. A proper old-fashioned no9, who scored goals that live in the memory, (216 games, 148 goals). What a player!

9. Who do you predict will finish in the top five this season?
Brentwood Town, Felixstowe & Walton United, Gorleston, Grays Athletic, Heybridge Swifts

Thanks Stewart- 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.

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Where next?

Three Bees Walker, Adjei and Jumo sign on at Basildon United
Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Herne Bay Fin Dodds gives us the lowdown on all things Bay

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