Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 22-23: Chertsey Town

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 back in the South Central, with Gary showing us around Chertsey Town.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
There were quite a few highlights last season. Reaching the 4TH Qualifying Round of the FA Cup for the first time was right up there, putting 5 past Basingstoke on their own patch was memorable, but I think the 1-0 away win at Bracknell Town was my favourite.

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

We have quite a few new signings this season so it’s hard to say. Nicky Jupp is a solid keeper who commands his defence well which will be imperative if we are to push for promotion, also Jake Baxter- a reliable 20 goals a season striker who works so hard for the team. Oh, and he never mentions the pen he scored at Wembley!

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

We came so close to promotion last season so that has to be our aim this time around. The new signings are bedding in well so all the signs are encouraging. Play Offs for sure but I think we’ve got a really good chance of winning the league.

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

Walton & Hersham for sure- everyone loves a local derby. Also Leatherhead have a good fan base so that should make for a cracking atmosphere as we are fortunate enough to have a solid away support.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?
Hanwell was my favourite last season that might have had something to do with meeting a certain QPR legend there’s only one Peter Crouch.

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

Leatherhead & Merstham, both relegated last season they will be wanting to get out of this league as soon as possible. Both sides have made some decent signings. I think the league is going to be really tight this year which makes it that much more exciting.

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

Park at the Sainsburys centre in the town as parking around the ground isn’t easy. It’s only a 5 minute walk away. Saturdays the clubhouse is normally open early showing the live lunchtime game- and it’s happy hour between 1-2.

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

I’ve been watching Chertsey for many years, and I’ve seen players progress into league football and players come the other way- in their twilight years shall we say. We had a superb team in the 90s that reached the Isthmian Premier- the highest level we have ever played at- so on that basis I’m going to say Chris Sparks, an absolute solid defender who will always tell you about the worldly he scored from about 18 inches out.

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

Chertsey Town, Leatherhead, Bedfont Sports, Merstham, Hanworth Villa

Thanks Gary! We’re about to close this feature and print the predicted tables- so if you asked for the questions and haven’t yet sent them back, please hurry! Predicted tables will be posted from Wednesday.

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