Sutton supporter Mark Barnham offers league sponsors Vanarama a personal take on the year and explains why he fell in love with the club in the first place.
So the end of 2019 is here - sum it all up?
The end of an era and signs that a new one is really getting
started. It was terribly difficult saying goodbye to Paul Doswell after all he
achieved, but good things come to an end and we are moving forward and the new chapter could be just as exciting.
What's your club's New Year's resolution?
Just do what you have been doing lately. Nothing much needs to
change, in fact it would be a whole lot better if it didn't!
The club were in the bottom four just weeks ago and now the side
are a few wins from the play-offs - what do you put the turn around down to?A refusal to panic. We had a rough time of it in September and
October. One win in ten suggested all sorts, but Matt Gray was certain one
result would turn things around for us - we went to Torquay and got it. Since then really the players haven't looked back.
What will 2020 hold at Gander Green Lane?
More progress. There expectation here is not promotion. You
never know, that could end up working in our favour.
Your player of 2019?
Harry Beautyman has been outstanding. To have ten goals from
midfield in half a season for a side who have struggled somewhat for a time
proves that point.
One to watch in the New Year?
As everyone who saw the Yeovil game will testify, David Ajiboye
is a big talent.
Your most memorable away day this year?
Woking on Boxing Day has to be up there. Maybe Boreham Wood away
last season. I tend to go to the more local ones but the odd far flung away day is always worthwhile.
When did you first fall in love with the club?
My family have all been attending matches since the 1980s. I was
asked along one day by my dad aged ten and didn't look back. I have been coming for nearly 25 years.
What makes the club so special?
The people. Not once have I ever came to the club and witnessed
anything other than a welcoming, friendly place to enjoy Non-League football. The Sutton fans have a history of backing their players. They have patience and it rubs off. Even in testing times the supporters support. How many other clubs can say that?
The National League's leasing partner Vanarama have this season launched
the 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.