Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Hullbridge Sports

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. Time for a trip to Hullbridge, courtesy of Sports (relatively) new follower David.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
The highlight has to be the season from January onwards when the team staged what has become known as 'The Great Escape'. From looking doomed to relegation in December with just 2 points the boys went on an amazing run that saw them survive and finish 16th with an incredible run of results that never looked possible but was achieved with some great performances overseen by the new management team.

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

Newly installed club captain Joe Gardner should play a big part in midfield and I'm looking forward to new signings, Harry Honesty & Lee Hursit adding quality to the squad. When you add in the players retained from last season, things are looking very promising.
3. Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?

After the drama of last season, I'm hoping to be looking up the table rather than down this time. The squad looks very good but it's always difficult to tell how it will go. I'm hoping for top six and believe this is achievable.

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

I love the night games under the lights at Lower Road but I'm really looking forward to our first game at Enfield in the FA Cup. I'm new to football at Hullbridge having moved there in December and this will be my first taste of FA Cup football with The Bridge.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

As mentioned above, this is all new to me so I don’t have a favourite away ground yet but I hope to get to some of the aways this season and I'll probably have my favourites by season end.

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

My personal choice would be Grays as I lived near there until December last year. League position-wise also, as if we finish above Grays, I think we will be doing OK.

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

Make sure you visit the clubhouse, an excellent facility with a small and a large bar, friendly banter with the home fans, and sky sports showing the scores from absolutely everywhere. The bar staff are good too!
8. Who is your favourite player of all time (for your club)- and why?

This will be different for me as I'm just the new boy but Tony Stokes is my choice. Stokesy is a non-league goalscoring legend and I arrived just in time to see the finishing master in action at the end of the season before he announced his retirement.

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

Brentwood Town, Grays Athletic, Felixstowe & Walton United, Maldon & Tiptree, Stowmarket Town

Thanks David- 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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