Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions: Wingate & Finchley

We're off to Summers Lane, where we're assured the supporters don't bite! Tom Salinger is our guide.


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. This is likely to be our final entry, and it comes from Tom, enjoying summer on Summers Lane.

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

Three highlights for me, each for different reasons. The last day win at Hornchurch, who were going for the play offs-and our side with ten men for the last half hour. Margate away the Saturday before Christmas (oh how the league love sending us to Margate when it’s cold!)- not only an away win and a clean sheet but my brother got me to the Albert Hall with a minute to spare. Finally, the 4-1 home win against Enfield Town. The one lowlight was me missing my first game in 6 years- Worthing away- as the coach didn’t turn up on time.

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

If he stays injury free I think centre back Jake Eales will do well. I’m also hoping Dylan Kearney will continue to score goals regularly.

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

We finished 15th last season so I think about that maybe as high as 12th.

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

Hastings United as it’s a ground I’ve not been to, Lewes because it’s a lovely town and my old school friend Alec is a Lewes fan so it’s always good seeing him, and Folkestone Invicta because of the treasure trove of a club shop.

5. What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?
My favourite away ground is Folkestone Invicta, as they are a good friendly club with the best club shop in football and a friendly relaxed atmosphere.

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

We don’t see anyone as rivals- it’s all friendly, local rivalries, with the likes of Haringey, Potters Bar, Enfield Town being close by.
7. What advice would you give to any away supporter visiting you for the first time?

Come into the bar and watch whichever one of the big 6 is chosen to be shown on tv. Chat to our supporters- we are a friendly bunch and don’t bite!

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

A tough question as there are several. Obviously Gavin King, Marc Weatherstone and
Ahmet Rifat for loyalty, but in terms of giving it his all, Rob Laney- he gave 100% every game.

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

Enfield Town, Hornchurch, Folkestone Invicta, Carshalton Athletic, Bishops Stortford

Thanks Tom! 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.

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

Where next?

Steppin' Out to Uxbridge Joe Jackson leaves Bedfont Sports for a new challenge
Pitching In Isthmian Supporters predictions 22-23: Westfield Theo Powell brings us a guide to Westfield, and invites you to have lunch with his grandmother!

The Pitching In Isthmian Football League newsletter

Keep up-to-date with our exclusive email newsletters.

Subscribe