Liam Blaney on a difficult second quarter of the season for Wingate & Finchley

Supporters of Wingate & Finchley FC watching the recent game against Cheshunt — Wingate & Finchley fans watch the recent game against Cheshunt – (Credit – Martin Addison)

It has been a half season of two halves for Wingate & Finchley in 2024/25. After the 2023/24 season, which was one of the most successful in recent years, culminated in a play-off spot in May, the Blues started the new season in much the same vein and looked on track to reach the same heights.

The Blues were in second place in mid-November, with the success of that opening run including away wins against relegated sides Dover Athletic and Dartford, both of whom have spent a significant amount of time in the National League rather than the Isthmian League in recent years. Looking at the table now, these sides are sat first and fourth, showing just how impressive those wins were.

In recent times, we have found it a real struggle to get wins on the board, with no wins in the last nine league matches, and only two draws in that run. The Blues have not found it a struggle to find the back of the net in that period, continuing to average more than a goal per game in front of goal, but have been conceding at will, and also having some bad luck along the way too. Manager Ahmet Rifat has made moves to bring in new faces in recent weeks as he looks to reverse the slump. As we look ahead to the second half of the season, it feels like a strong run could push the Blues back into the top half, although the play-offs may be a step too far this season, 16 points away with 18 matches remaining.

A few key players have stood out this season: Ogo Obi has stolen many headlines with over 20 goals already in all competitions, putting him firmly in contention for the league’s golden boot award at this stage. In midfield, Ryan Lowe signed in the summer after his release from Colchester United, has proven a key member of the midfield, particularly with the departure of last season’s player of the year Matty Achuba to Hemel Hempstead. In defence, Ayo Tanimowo has impressed many with his attacking prowess from wing back, while Toby Byron has added another dimension to the centre back options.

The club has continued to make strides off the field, with a new food offering including gourmet hot dogs sourced from Finchley-based butchers Graham’s and an expanded beer offering from Bohemia-based London Brewing Co.

Attendances are continuing to grow as more people are coming along to see what all the fuss is about in non-league football. We are always looking for extra volunteers and supporters at the Maurice Rebak Stadium. Find out more at www.wingatefinchley.com

Barnet Post readers can get a free ticket to the home match against Dover Athletic on Saturday 8th February by using the code BARNETPOST at checkout on the club’s ticket site.

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