Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Hastings United

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. We’re off to the seaside, and George gives us a hand- indeed, an entire arm- to understand the world of Hastings United

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
It was an incredible season in 2021/22 with so many huge wins in league and cup. Beating Chippenham away, a last minute winner at Sittingbourne with 10 men and the away win at Cray Valley just some of them. However the one that tops the lot is probably taking 500-600 fans to Ashford for the biggest game of the season and coming out victorious. What a day that was!

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

It's an exciting time to be in the youth set up at Hastings, and seeing homegrown players come through to the first team and have success has been a real pleasure. Leading that pack is Tom Chalmers who is a frighteningly talented and intelligent footballer. Elsewhere, I'll predict a huge season for Ben Pope up front.

3. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?
As fans, I think winning more games than we lose would be considered a success, but the club's mentality is to win everything we enter, so I'll be backing that up in my table prediction. There were plenty of doubters in November 2021 when we were 13 points adrift. I'll go for 1st.

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

The return of the Lewes fixture is an exciting one, and to have them away on August Bank Holiday is great. I'm also looking forward to trips 'abroad' over the Thames as we've been mostly Kent and Sussex bound in the league for far too long. Bognor Regis hotel is also already booked!

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Last season my favourite one was Herne Bay so I'm pleased they came up with us. Proper, genuine people there who follow their club passionately - much like Hastings! It's also a ground that hugs the pitch and can help create a good atmosphere.

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

Lewes. A real Sussex derby with some classic fixtures in the past, including a thrilling 4-4 on Easter Monday a few years back. There will be a big crowd at both games. It's also our closest fixture, with Ashford missing out in the playoffs and none of Eastbourne's many teams being in our division.

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

If you're travelling straight to the ground via rail, get off at Ore station and walk the 25 minutes to the ground from there. If you have more time, make your way to the Old Town and sample the best selection of pubs, restaurants, independent shops and chippies in the South East.

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

Jack Dixon. Served the club brilliantly for many years and the way he's led the side - particularly over the past year - has been absolutely incredible. Skillful player and hugely competitive and determined. Local player too, and epitomises what Non League football is all about.

9. Who do you predict will finish in the top five this season?

Hastings United, Enfield Town, Lewes, Horsham, Hornchurch

(We were rather intrigued by George's choice of photograph, and asked him to explain it. We thought you'd like the explanation:

"The arm formed part of a Heineken branded mannequin that was in our clubhouse for the Euros. During the champions celebrations with the players it was destroyed pretty badly, and this was the only part left. It's now a treasured memento and will make a few fixtures again this season."

Thanks George- that was fabulous. 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.