Disappointing end to the season for SW20 football teams

Eversley & California's Captain and goal scorer Joe Pantony consoles Westside's goalkeeper Seb Hunt, after Westside were beaten 0–1 in the Combined Counties Division One playoff final

The final match of the 24/25 Season saw Westside defeated in the Combined Counties Division One playoff final at Colliers Wood Utd's Wibbandune Sports Ground in SW20, with 350 fans in attendance. Eversley & California's Captain Joe Pantony scored directly from a corner in the 35th minute, and the score remained unchanged until the end.

Westside secured 2nd place in the league and are anticipated to build on this strong finish, aiming for promotion in the 25/26 season.

Two days prior, Kingstonian (who groundshare with Raynes Park Vale) lost in a penalty shootout against Uxbridge United in the Isthmian League South Central's playoff semi-final. Uxbridge Utd subsequently won the playoff final, defeating Hanworth Villa 2–1.

Colliers Wood United ended the season in 15th place in the Combined Counties Division One League. Former Raynes Park Vale coach Gavin Bolger is aiming for significant improvement next season.

The season was particularly disappointing for Raynes Park Vale fans, who had high hopes. The team finished 9th in the Isthmian League South Central League, missing out on the playoff spots.

The unexpected dismissal of manager Josh Gallagher in late January led to many Vale players leaving. Hayden Bird, the former Leatherhead manager, took over but, despite overhauling the squad and backroom staff, failed to secure a playoff position.

A strong promotion push is expected for the 25/26 season, with new players set to strengthen the squad. Expect some quality signings.

Recent Raynes Park Vale signing Trevan Robinson and former Vale striker George Vincent (now with South Park), get to grips in the penalty area. This game finished Vale 2–2 South Park.

Many football fans are increasingly gravitating towards Non-League football, with supporting local teams gaining popularity. It offers a hassle-free introduction to football, particularly for younger fans. Supporters can simply arrive at a match, pay at the turnstile, choose where to stand, explore the ground, meet up with friends, and enjoy a beer while watching the game. Admission fees, as well as food and drink prices, are reasonable, and the quality of football is excellent.

The next season starts in August. SW20 features pages on all the four Non League teams that play in the area, so look out for the fixture lists and come along to the games.

The full set of photos taken at the Westside vs Eversley & California playoff final are here:

https://bit.ly/4k3Q6Ka