Why 34-year-old EFL striker Brett Pitman dropped from newly promoted Bristol Rovers to ninth tier Portchester
During his career, Brett Pitman has won League Two, League One and the Championship with Bournemouth, playing for clubs including Bristol City, Ipswich Town, Portsmouth and Swindon Town.
However, in the summer of 2022, the 34-year-old made a drastic fall in the English pyramid, from newly promoted League One club Bristol Rovers to ninth tier Portchester.
The former EFL stalwart got off to a blistering start at the Wessex League Premier Division club, scoring 28 goals in his first 18 starts, including a hat-trick and last-minute winner in a crucial 3-2 win away at Portland in November.
A week later, he hit four in an 8–1 thrashing of Alresford. This form helped make the Royals early promotion contenders.
Speak against FourFourTwo in the latest issue on sale, the 34-year-old explains why he dropped so many divisions.
“I expected to score goals as I do whatever level I play at,” said Pitman FFT. “That part didn’t surprise me, but it was great that the team went unbeaten in our first 13 league matches. We expected to do well, but to have that start is great.
“I’ve enjoyed my time at Bristol Rovers, they’re a really good club. Although I wasn’t very successful personally, it was nice to see them promoted last season because there are good people there.”
However, Pitman did not experience Bristol Rovers’ promotion run-up, spending the second half of last season on loan at National League side Eastleigh. He made 17 appearances for the Hampshire outfit, scoring just one goal.
“Going to Eastleigh was a strange time. I felt like I wasn’t being used enough, or wasn’t being used properly. I didn’t like it, which is why my next step was so important. It was imperative that I go to enjoy it , and I’m glad it’s worked out well in Portchester so far.
“The quality of the opposition is mixed if I’m honest,” he admits. “There have been some good teams that have given us a rigorous test. On the other hand, there were some bad, disorganized teams and we took advantage of that.
“It doesn’t matter what level you play at, you play to win. Whether it’s football or golf I just want to win no matter what. When I came here I wanted to enjoy my football. The Portchester- guys were class and helped me fit in. I’ve been one of the guys. I’m enjoying the here and now; I’m not looking beyond this season. As long as I can contribute on the field, I don’t see why I shouldn’t Get on.”
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