Vanarama's National League South Fan Preview: St Albans City

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

After going so close to getting in the play-offs last season, can the Saints put that right this time?
Every year it becomes more difficult as clubs invest more money. We have a good manager but we'll need to go some to make sure we don’t come up just short again.

The club have stated they are looking into going full-time. How big is that for the future of St Albans City?
Personally I can't see it any time soon - certainly not before a new ground is built. But when it is, the world is our oyster.

What has been the best bit of business done over the past few months?
Sounds like it's going to be David Longe-King for us, England C already and we chased off a host of other teams

Who will be your one to watch coming kick-off this weekend?
I'm hoping it's Sam Merson. We need a big season out of him

It will be a tough league again - but who are the sides that will challenge?
Billericay have made some excellent signings, but do they have the manager? And will the owner leave him to get on with it? Otherwise you have to look at Havant who have the signings and the manager.

And which club is going to be the season’s surprise side?
It'll probably be Hemel to be honest, if you are looking for a team that'll do considerably better than last season. Full-time Dulwich and new boys Dorking Wanderers could be up there as well.

We all love away days - where are you most looking forward to heading to?
Champion Hill, last time we went there Dulwich were getting crowds of 300 - now it'll be full. Last season they were at Tooting when we played them and I always love watching the Saints play in front of big crowds.

And what game would you like to win more than any other and why?
The obvious answer would be Hemel but I think to beat Billericay and their expensive squad at their place would be very sweet.

What opposition player would you most like to see in your side - and what makes him so good?
We almost signed Jordan Parkes by all accounts before he went to Billericay. He has been excellent in this division for years now and we know he can score because he always did against us!

Finally, the key question - where do you predict your team will finish next season?
I would say between 8th and 11th.

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.
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