Pitching In Isthmian Supporters predictions 23-24:Kingstonian (part one)

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

Highlights were difficult to come by last season as you might suspect from a team who very narrowly avoided relegation… however, the 2-0 away win against Corinthian Casuals which all but secured our Isthmian Premier League status was a great, hard-fought win and epitomised our improvements since Simon Lane came into the hot seat in February. 

Our only league game in the borough of Kingston also ensured plenty of Ks fans were around to enjoy the moment and create a good atmosphere.

2. And what was the worst moment?

Another away game in the Kingston borough… a 1-4 defeat to Combined Counties Premier Division South side Raynes Park Vale in the Surrey Senior Cup just prior to Simon Lane’s appointment.

We looked a team void of effort, ideas or anything to offer whatsoever and destained for relegation.

3. Which member of your squad was your Player of the Season - and why?

Has to be Tyrese Owen, even though he departed before the end of the season; without his goals and assists we would have been down before Simon Lane came in.

Recently showing his ability in the Europa Conference League Qualifying for Haverfordwest County, he has the best wishes and love from all Ks fans for the upcoming season. 

4. Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 2023-24 campaign?

So far we’ve only had confirmation of 7 retained players and no confirmed new signings so a slim list to chose from…

But Darnell Goather-Braithwaite looked a real bright spark towards the end of last season and definitely feels like will be a key cog in creativity for the season ahead.

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

Quietly optimistic under Simon Lane, with a more settled squad we can avoid another real relegation battle… but with reduced budget and another season away from Kingston not by much. Upper lower-half of the table would realistically be a success… anything else a bonus. 

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

Dulwich away… big team and great stadium for this level. 

 
7. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Carshalton Athletic - nice ground with a  great community feel in the centre of Carshalton…. Feels a long way off for Kingstonian. 

8. If you regularly travelled away, which ground served the best food?

As we’re practically playing our games away again this season at Tooting and Mitcham- I’ve got to give a shout out to The Shack, serving top Caribbean food.

There won’t be much we’ll miss from Tooting but The Shack is top (probably only) thing on the list. 

9. Choose your top five:

Hornchurch, Dulwich Hamlet, Lewes, Horsham, Billericay Town

Right, it's your turn! If you'd like to represent your club, please email Ian at townsendaround@gmail.com and you'll see your answers here soon.

Follow the Pitching In Isthmian League on Instagram. Head here or search for theisthmianleague on your app. We're also on Facebook and Twitter.