Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Basingstoke Town

Basingstoke Town are up next, and Matt Josey assaults your ears, as usual!


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 Basingstoke, courtesy of that man with the drumsticks, Matt Josey.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
In terms of a game certainly the dramatic 4-3 win at home to Thatcham. Thatcham scoring to make it 3-3 at 89 mins thinking it was over only for McKoy Palmer to smash it home for a late winner! But for atmosphere and build up reasons it would be both Bracknell and Chertsey games.

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

Brad Wilson. Had a nightmare end to a great season last term with an injury but Brad has been on fire in pre-season scoring many goals and looking a deadly threat to other teams this season. Others I can think of would include Marcio Neves who is a tricky little player who will frustrate the opposition and Luis LePaih looks a solid new addition.

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

Obviously, in terms of the size of our club I would love to say win the title but realistically I would be happy with a playoff spot then to gain promotion through there. We have some other very good sides in this league and to gain promotion we need a much better home record than 21/22, if we can keep our superb away form up then we 'could' go for the title... who knows…

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

Chertsey as we have unfinished business with them plus, they have a good size fanbase. Leatherhead will be the big boys to look forward to and Tooting & Mitcham away as their fans were very vocal last season despite where they were and fair play, I like that.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?
Chertsey - just a nice packed in little ground they have a passionate and loyal fanbase and one that really gets the hairs on my arms up if the atmosphere is there. Also love Tooting & Mitchams ground.
6. Who do you consider your biggest rivals- and why?

Sadly with Bracknell promoted that leaves us with very few options for a rivalry.... maybe Chertsey as they were all over us last season and we both have big fanbases.

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

Be ready to take some stick! Our fanbase loves to dish out some banter so I would recommend taking it on the chin, give it back and keep it level-headed! Me being with the drum I love it when the away support come and stand by us lot for one of the halves- really good fun and it can get very noisy!

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

Been a 'follower' of Basingstoke since 2005/06 but only really become a 'fan' last season so mine may not seem to everyone's taste but from last season Marcio Neves such a talented player I really hope he gets a shot this year with appearances and goals! Marcio Neves... remember the name...

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

Leatherhead, Basingstoke Town, Bedfont Sports, Walton & Hersham, ChertseyTown

Thanks Matt- 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?

Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Walton & Hersham Mike Cayford laces up his boots, pulls on his corduroys, and introduces us to those (Walton &) Hersham boys
Two defensive Towners Rian McLean returns to Enfield Town, and James Richmond arrives from Merstham

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