Shot of the Season 21-22: Martin Denyer

By Ian Townsend

We asked our fabulous Pitching In Isthmian Photographers to choose their favourite photograph of the campaign, and tell us why it is important to them.


We’ve had a magnificent Pitching In Isthmian season, one which has been illustrated and enriched by the work of a number of brilliant photographers, who have recorded it for posterity. Martin Denyer brings us his very favourite image of the season.

• When was the image taken (match, event, etc)?

30 August 2021 Worthing v Bognor Regis Town at Woodside Road

• Why is it important to you?

This photo encapsulated a moment of joy and celebration that sustains us all when things aren’t always going so well, made even more special after being denied the experience for so long.

It was the beginning of a new Isthmian League campaign and after two spoiled seasons fans up and down the country once again were given the chance to spend time with their friends watching non-league football.

Bognor travelled to Woodside Road to meet their fierce rivals Worthing full of hope but not much expectation.
After being largely outplayed there was an explosion of relief and celebration from the travelling Green Army in a crowd of over 2000 as The Rocks took the lead on their way to a 2-0 win. (I'm pretty sure the two fingers gesture towards the Worthing fans was a forecast of the result!)

Unfortunately that’s as good as it got for Bognor, with Worthing deservedly crowned Premier Division champions.

• Where can we find the rest of your work?

On Flickr, and Twitter

• How and why did you begin taking photographs at football matches?

I began taking sports photos about a year ago after buying some second-hand gear on eBay and watching some tutorials on YouTube. I’ve enjoyed the challenge and have also gained a lot of pleasure in sharing them with anyone who’s interested.
And most importantly I’ve found that combining the joy of non-league football and photography has helped my mental health in what I have sometimes found to be a challenging time.

• What are your hopes for the forthcoming season?

My hopes for the season ahead? Promotion for Bognor to the National South and the chance to spend more time with friends new and old.

If you regularly take photographs at our matches but haven't yet submitted yours, there's still time. Send it to Ian at townsendaround@gmail.com

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Where next?

Shot of the Season 21-22: Martin Addison We asked our fabulous Pitching In Isthmian Photographers to choose their favourite photograph of the campaign, and tell us why it is important to them.
Shot of the Season 21-22: Alan Edmonds We asked our fabulous Pitching In Isthmian Photographers to choose their favourite photograph of the campaign, and tell us why it is important to them.

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