Vanarama's National League South Fan Preview: Havant & Waterlooville

Hawks diehard Chris Ough puts his reputation on the line by talking us through the new season!

League sponsors Vanarama have been getting the fans’ perspective ahead of the new season - which kicks off this Saturday

So the last four years have been down, up, up and down. It’s not boring, is it? Could that trend continue under Paul Doswell?
Hopefully the ‘up’ trend can! Paul has brought stability and a solid foundation to the club. When we do get up I think we can establish ourselves as a mid-table National League side and maybe look to build towards a play-off push in years to come. He knows the league and I think he can emulate the amazing job he did at Sutton.

What’s been the best bit of business done over the past few months?
We've done so much business - but I have to say the manager is the best bit of business. Lee Bradbury was loved here but the level of professionalism Dos has brought in with the extra training and the calibre of players he's added has really seen the club grow so much so quickly. He's also improved further the interaction with the fans. The signings he has made have been well thought-out and we look a really solid, good-to-watch outfit.

Who will be your one to watch coming August 3?
So many players look exciting in the new-look side it's difficult to choose. Chris Paul already look so vastly improved. If I had to pick one player though it has to be Johan Ayunga, strong powerful and a great finisher and we all love a goal scorer. My Dad would pick Nicky Bailey so I have to put him in the mix too.

Who are the other sides sure to be looking for promotion as well?
Lots of teams are in with a chance and it's difficult to look past the obvious suspects like Billericay and Maidstone. I have a sneaking suspicion Weymouth won't be far away, they've made some excellent signings including a couple of our old players.

Who could shock the lot and leave us all surprised?
Paul Doswell listed about nine clubs that could be up there which gives an indication of the strength of the league this year. Braintree could spring a surprise.

There are a lot of great away days but what ground are you most looking forward to heading to the most?
Weymouth, I've been to the town such a lot as a child it'll be great to see the Hawks play there. Braintree will be good too after a memorable away day there last season.

And what game would you like to win above all the rest?
Definitely want to beat Eastbourne Borough! We couldn't not love Lee Bradbury for what he did here but you don't want to lose to your old manager.

If you could snatch one opposition player, who would it be?
Our squad is so strong and athletic this season. I don't think we're screaming out for a player in any particular position. Maybe Nassin L'Ghoul who was at Welling last year. A good, pacey winger who causes full-backs problems. He has just signed for Dover and will do well.

Lastly, the big question - where do you predict your team will finish next season?
A lot will depend on injuries and suspensions. I genuinely think if we can keep our big players fit we'll be very difficult to stop and we'll challenge - definitely play-offs at worse.

Vanarama have recently launched the National League Club Reward scheme to help fans back their club’s budget. Every time a fan takes out a brand new van lease with Vanarama or a brand new car lease with Motorama their club will earn £100 and you will receive £30 cashback.

For the latest van leasing deals head to Vanarama.
For the latest car leasing deals head to Motorama.

Where next?

Dev Sets His Sights High For BT Sport Curtain Raiser Judge us after ten games. The opening day is just the first of many matches. Let’s see where we are a few months down the line.
Now County Are The Ones Rising As BT Sport Join The Party As the previews and predictions are being written, the name Stockport County is being furiously scribbled. Jim Gannon knows what a lot of people are thinking right about now.