Rochester United vs Clapton Community FC takes place on Saturday, December 14 2024 with a 3pm kick off at Rochester United Sports Ground, Rede Court Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 3TU

After last week’s rare postponement, it’s hopefully back to action for the Clapton CFC Men’s First Team this weekend against a play-off rival.

We’ve played every team in the division so far except Rochester United, though we have visited the ground already as Greenways also play there.

We’re at the half-way point of the season, having played 17 games and with 17 still to go. CCFC are in fifth place, although having played more than most. In terms of points per game, we’re eighth, while Rochester are third.

About the opposition

The club began life as Bly Spartans in 1982 playing Sunday football, switching to Saturdays in 1997 and changing their name in 2012. They stormed up the levels quickly and have been in the Southern Counties East League since its inception in 2013. Last season they secured their best ever finish in fourth but lost to Staplehurst Monarchs in the play-offs.

Form guide

Both teams are on similar form, with 3 wins out of 5. A couple of Rochester’s recent wins have been against teams who have beaten us, such as Faversham Strike Force and Bridon Ropes.

Previous meetings

None.

Player to watch

Former Charlton Athletic youth, Chatham Town and Ashford United striker Mack Reilly is the top scorer in the entire division with 18 in 17 games, including a hat-trick in his last game. (He’s just ahead of our own Fred Taylor who is third in the charts).

Admission

Admission is £8, concessions £5, U18s £1. There’s a bar and food kiosk.

Transport and directions

The ground is in Strood, rather than neighbouring Rochester. Strood has a station on a direct line from St Pancras International and Stratford International, and another line from Victoria. It’s a 39 minute walk from Strood station or you can catch the 190 bus.