David O’Driscoll on the recent uptick in Walthamstow FC’s fortunes
It seems the only thing that can stop Walthamstow FC’s progress at the moment is the inclement weather. In December, the Stow were firmly in the bottom half of the table but, in the 13 matches since, they have only lost once. This means they are currently fifth on the leader board in the Southern League (Central Division) and thus guaranteed a chance at promotion if they can maintain this position.
No one is happier about this turnaround than the club’s chairman Andy Perkins. He told me: “It feels good to go to a match, confident that we can win every game we play. I have every confidence that we can make the play-offs and, once in that situation, well… this team knows how to win!”
According to centre midfielder Kieran Turner, who joined this season, “a lot of credit” for this transformation “needs to go” to the new manager, Nicky Ironton. Kieran said: “He’s put together an incredible group, where the boys are really close and have become good friends. It’s been a long time since I have enjoyed my football this much.”
However, it’s not just the camaraderie of his teammates that has Kieran “absolutely loving” his time at The Stow. He added: “The support from fans is absolutely amazing and one of the best I’ve experienced. We’re hoping for some big crowds in our next remaining games to get us over the line.”
Luckily for him, more and more people are beginning to see the appeal of supporting non-league teams like Walthamstow FC. Tickets are significantly cheaper, matches have a friendly atmosphere and the standard of play is still good; currently very good with our team in particular. At Walthamstow FC matches, you can also enjoy beer from the excellent local brewery Exhale and rub shoulders with a dedicated fan club, The Rabble, who always come armed with a range of interesting banners and imaginative songs.
Rabble member Benjamin James told me: “We didn’t start this season too well but the second half has been fantastic. The play-offs felt a million miles away back in September but it’s all in our hands now.
“Nicky Ironton has built a team of experienced players and exciting new talent, that’s translated into some excellent footballing performances and a team who don’t back down from a scrap.”
Now is the time, with games coming thick and fast, for football fans to get behind their local team, sample the unique atmosphere and, most of all, help Walthamstow FC in the end-of-season scramble to cement their play-off spot. I hope to see you down at Wadham Lodge!
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