Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Felixstowe & Walton 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 again, this time in Suffolk, and Stuart is our guide to Felixstowe & Walton United.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
So many to choose from. In the league it has to be our run to the playoffs, incredible form from November onwards after a disastrous injury list had made for a slower start than we would have liked. The trip to Maldon & Tiptree in our penultimate match where we absolutely demolished the home side 5-1 to confirm the playoff spot was an unforgettable afternoon, and the late Billy Holland winner a week before to beat Stowmarket at home will stay with me forever, I literally have tears running down my face even now as I write this! Such a fantastic, emotional evening. Away from the league we had another epic run in the FA Trophy, beating sides from higher leagues once again such as Isthmian South East Champions Hastings United and new National League North members Peterborough Sports before eventually bowing out to National League AFC Telford at home. I remember texting Boards (Stuart Boardley) our Manager when that draw was made to thank him for bringing games like that to our club.

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

The signing of Callum Harrison could prove crucial this year, his class is already shining through in preseason and he’ll hopefully chip in with several goals. Billy Holland for me was outstanding last year and the “Baby Giraffe” will again run the show at the AGL Arena. The power of Zak Brown up top and the mesmerising talent of the Wizard, Henry Barley will be worth watching too.

3. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?
I guess every club looks to improve and progress each season, we’ve certainly been on an upward trajectory these last few years so I see no reason why we won’t reach the playoffs once again. I always say that this league is the toughest step 4 division in the country and despite several new additions to the league, I don’t think it’ll get any easier this season!

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

I always like a local derby and we have several this year. We also get to meet up with our old step 5 friends Wroxham and Gorleston. Lowestoft will be a decent game too, they’re a club that showed how it is possible to climb the leagues from step 5 and they would no doubt still be up there if they hadn’t of been placed in National North a few seasons back. Ridiculous travel costs and difficulties for players to commit to that schedule must have been a huge factor in their slip back downwards.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Most people say AFC Sudbury, and I usually would, who else can offer a press box like theirs to us media types! But this year I have to say Wroxham. The chance to call into the beautiful centre of the town, take a river cruise on the Broads, pop in the famous Roy’s stores and grab fish and chips by the river before the game makes the Yachtsmen by number 1 trip.

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

I wouldn’t say we have an actual rival club, we have friendly relationships with all the Suffolk clubs. Stowmarket are seen as possible rivals I guess due to the similar progression of each club the last few years (Although we haven’t spent all the money they have!). The other I would say is Bury, their fans seemed to get very upset with us last season for no apparent reason? Or it could have been the three thumpings we gave them on the pitch in league and cup within a few weeks! They’ve made several changes over the summer so will be one to watch this season.

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

Make a weekend of it. We’re on the beautiful Suffolk Sunshine Coast and it really is an area to get away from it all. We’re well known of course for having the UK’s largest port, but Felixstowe is so much more than that with nearly five miles of wonderful beaches.

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

I used to say Danny Crump, our longtime GK who has recently retired again, but this year I’m plumping for Jordy Matthews. A magnificent servant for this club who is now taking a break from football. Those are massive boots to fill!

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

Grays Athletic, AFC Sudbury, Brentwood Town, Felixstowe & Walton Utd, Stowmarket Town

Thanks Stuart- 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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