The Pitching In Isthmian Football League

Shot of the Season: Paul Smith

9 May 2023 By Ian Townsend

We asked our fabulous photographers to pick their favourite photograph of the Pitching In Isthmian campaign, and explain why it’s important to them. Paul points his camera at Lancing.

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

The photo was taken by me on 28th January 2023 when Burgess Hill Town hosted Lancing FC in the South East Isthmian League fixture, a game that saw Lancing recover from 3-0 to finally draw the tie at 4-4.

Why is it important to you?

The shot was important to me because it was captured around the centre circle with a 300mm telephoto lens in poor light and displayed the commitment of both players to win the ball.

Where can we find the rest of your work?

The main body of my work can be found on the Lancing FC website- here.

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

I started taking photos for Lancing FC during the 21/22 season.

What are your hopes for the forthcoming season?

My hopes for the forthcoming season are that I can continue taking photographs and improving my portfolio- and that Lancing FC progress even further in the Isthmian League.

If you're a photographer who would like to send in their shot of the season, please answer the questions above and email to Ian on townsendaround@gmail.com

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Where next?

My First XI: Jack Naldrett We asked our supporters to pick- and explain- their Team of the Year from amongst the players they’ve watched this season. Jack, from Burgess Hill Town, picks a South East First XI