Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions: East Thurrock 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. It’s time to roll with the Rocks, courtesy of Liam.

1. Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?
Although there weren’t as many positive results last season as we had hoped for there were still some great moments throughout. We had a decent run in the FA Cup, beating Cambridge City three-one then going on to face Needham Market, drawing two-two at home then winning the replay away three-two, this meant we would face Boston United away. We knew this would be a tough game and even though we lost it was still a great experience for the team and fans.

On the 9th of October we faced Hornchurch at home. This was a great game to watch, and in the last minute of added time Tom Barton scored a headed goal to win us the game, an important three points against a very good side.

After this game things went downhill rapidly. We lost 7 matches consecutively conceding 27 goals, new managers Marc Harrison and Liam Wallace were appointed, and they tried to rebuild the squad (to a certain extent.)

Marc, Liam, and the players gave everything they had towards the end of the season, and operating on such a tight budget is difficult in a competitive league like the Isthmian Premier. We had some amazing results and this gave us the fans hope of staying up, but it wasn’t to be.

It was quite sad seeing us play in the National League South, then go down the Premier and now were at Step 4 for the first time since 2011, but hopefully we can bounce back up!

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

I think striker Olly Miles will make a big impact next season. Marc and Liam signed him from Enfield after taking over from Paul Martin and he has scored some important goals. Other players to watch are Amaree Robinson Jones, a new singing from Witham Town, Darnell Kathimbo, a new arrival from Great Wakering Rovers, and defender Ryan Boswell, one of our best players last season.

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

I think this season will be tough but we should definitely be aiming for a top half finish or playoffs at minimum. Between 10th and 5th is a realistic place to aim for.

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

I am really looking forward to playing teams who we have not played before, or not played in a long time, New Salamis, Gorleston etc.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

Cray Wanderers, now I know they play at Bromley’s stadium who are in the National League but this was a really nice stadium with great facilities. If not then Aveley have a lovely modern ground too.

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

Grays Athletic and Tilbury.

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

Have a great time, enjoy the game and get yourself a burger from Flava Dave inside the ground.

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

My favourite player of all time for East Thurrock United would have to be Sam Higgins, a goal machine scoring goals galore, our all time top scorer with 275 goals for us.

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

Stowmarket Town, Brentwood Town, Felixstowe and Walton United, Grays Athletic, AFC Sudbury

Thanks Liam- 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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