Shot of the Season 21-22: Paul Wilmott

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. Paul Wilmott brings us a shot from the seaside.

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

The image is from the match between Ramsgate FC (1 - 3) Corinthian FC of 15 March 2022 and features Harvey Smith scoring Corinthian’s second goal of the game shortly before half-time.

• Why is it important to you?
The image is important for me as I have recently reconnected with Corinthian after a 20 year hiatus. Not only has it been great to reconnect with some old friends and make new ones too, it has been fantastic to see my old club thriving in their maiden season. The Ramsgate result cemented the progress that they have made.
With regard to the image itself, I just love the capture of balletic movement of Harvey Smith as he flicks the ball past the keeper with the deftest of touches, football is not all about power and athleticism.

• Where can we find the rest of your work?

My work can be found on Facebook at: Paul Willmott - fotoreel
and also on Twitter Paul Willmott @PaulWillmott365

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

I have been a keen photographer since the age of 10 and began sports photography as teenager way back in 1979. A family friend worked as a professional with the Kent Messenger Group and he gave me a camera and sat me at the opposite end to him so that in theory he could get the goals, I covered matches over North Kent such as Dartford FC and Gravesend & Northfleet. To my surprise, I started to get my photographs published and that was a real thrill. I like football and photography, so have recently combined the two again.

• What are your hopes for the forthcoming season?
To be able to record some silverware would be great for next season, however to keep improving my technique with a few less out of focus images........ I don't post the nearly’s! However, more than anything, to showcase how good non-league football really is.

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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