Isthmian league (original) (raw)

Restructuring has seen clubs formerly in the Southern League incorporated into a new-look Isthmian League and for the first time, there is now a clear progression route for clubs in the County. Inevitably, this means that the Southern League is only of comparatively limited interest to Sussex Non League supporters.

Worthing, having come with a late run in Division One (South) of the Ryman last season and finished beaten finalists in the Sussex Senior Cup, now find themselves the county�s sole representatives in a very tough looking Premier Division this season. With the likes of Hendon, ambitious Eastleigh, and the full-timers of Billericay Town to contend with Alan Pook will certainly have his work cut-out.

Predictably Pook has strengthened his squad with the likes of Marc Pullan and Ian Payne from Crawley; and Albion youngster Sam Rents. The flip-side however, is a catalogue of injuries and suspensions ahead of the season opener at Wealdstone. Predictions: mid-table looks the best that Worthing can hope for in a very tough Division

Meanwhile, Burgess Hill, Horsham, and Hastings United can all at least look forward to a bumper pay day when AFC Wimbledon visit in Division One.

Of the three, Horsham�s John Maggs is the most bullish of his side�s chances in another Division that is very difficult to call: �Promotion is the minimum I expect this year ... this is the strongest squad I have ever assembled at the club�. Maggs has strengthened the Hornets� squad with the return of Gavin Geddes and Rob Collins; whilst Eastbourne Borough�s John Westcott will be looking to recapture his form after a very disappointing season at Priory Lane. Defender James Crofts, and midfielder Leroy John are two others to have made the move to Queen Street.

In all Maggs has made seven new signings, completed by former players Germain Amanual and Junior Kamara, as well as another striker in Florian Matteos from Worthing. Prediction: definite chance of a play-off spot if all goes to plan but not good enough for the title

Burgess Hill Town still had a chance of a play-off opportunity on the last day of the season but failure may turn out to be a blessing in disguise for Gary Croydon�s side. Division One of the Ryman will be Hillians� third league in as many years and Croydon will be looking for consolidation rather than the struggle they would probably have faced in the Premier Division.

Pre-season results have been encouraging, particularly a 5-0 drubbing of neighbours Hassocks in which Shaheen Sadough hit a hat-trick. Defender Ben Andrews will also be playing up front alonside Chris Harper and Nicky Sullivan this season. Further injury to keeper Pat Gannon however is a worry for Croydon, and with loan keeper Chris May recalled by the Albion have taken another Seagulls� keeper John Sullivan on work experience. Prediction: Southern League experience will stand them in good stead in the top half of the table

Hastings United boss Steve Lovell always insisted that last season was a rebuilding exercise following the club�s dramatic descent down the Pyramid, and now is the time to start building for the future.

Lovell has used his Gillingham connections to good effect in putting together his squad, with the signing of keeper Danny Knowles to compete with Greg Nessling. Crucially though Lovell has also invested in the experience of Steve Smith, Peter Mortley and Alan Tutton at the back; whilst Chris Honey will continue to lead the line. Prediction: mid-table for Lovell