TT INTERVIEW

Sam talks about the Millers from Aveley

ABOUT ME

I’m Sam, an IT Networks Construction Manager and co-founder of the Sons of Aveley supporters club. Been following Aveley for just under 10 years. First game was non league day in 2014 and been going ever since.

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NLS & EXPECTATIONS FOR 23/24

Excited doesn’t really cover it. We’ve gone from the Isthmian North to the National South in the blink of an eye. It’s been an incredible journey. Going into the season, expectations were survival, a good cup run and just to make sure we enjoy it.

FORM

Form has been great, 4 wins from 6 in the opening stages can’t be sniffed at. The two defeats with had have been unlucky I would say. A lucky goal at Chippenham and just switching off in the dying seconds against Dartford.

HIGHLIGHTS

Worthing away has to be the highlight so far. A great day out for one, but to get a win away to a team that strong is massive for us.

KEY PLAYERS

A lot of noise obviously about Jon Benton. He was a massive player for us in when we won the Isthmian North, so to have him back is fantastic. But every player in the squad is key to the team really. Siju Odelusi has had a great start to the season. Matt Rush is causing havoc. Harry Gibbs is improving every game and strong at the back.

THE MANAGER

Scopsey (Danny Scopes) is a legend at this club already. We were struggling in the Isthmian North when he took over and the transformation has been incredible. 6 months later we were crowned Champions. Then a second promotion last season. On top of that he’s a really great guy and always has time for a drink and a chat after the game. As far as style of play, it’s fast paced, quick passing attacking football. Letting the players express themselves. But I’ve seen him change it up completely when needed due to the opponent.

POSSIBLE LINE-UP

I don’t expect many changes to the line-up from Monday’s game if any. The lads have been playing unbelievably. Why change it.

PRE-MATCH REFRESHMENTS

For food, there’s the Ockendon Cafe in South Ockendon, only a couple of minutes drive from the ground. Drinks, you have the Knight of Aveley which is just round the corner from the cafe. Unfortunately, the closest pub to the ground closed down during Covid, which is a shame because that was a regular haunt. Otherwise, there’s Lakeside Shopping Centre Boardwalk or the ground itself.

FACTS ABOUT THE MILLERS

Interesting facts? Not sure what would be classed as interesting. It’s a small village club playing at their highest ever level. When we first started going, we were playing at Mill Field getting an average attendances of 80. Since the move to Parkside things have been getting better and better. Average attendances now around the 350 – 400 mark. Our biggest game was back in 2020 when former West Ham and Northern Ireland player Keith Rowland took us to the quarter final of the FA Trophy when we travelled up to Notts County. The ground was used in 2018 to host the CONIFA World Cup.