The newly-affiliated Clapton CFC Men’s Over 35s team staged the biggest game in their short history on Saturday, as they welcomed Madrid side Club Deportivo Parque Verde to London for an international friendly.

The match was arranged to take place in South West London, due to the Spanish team’s plan to attend Fulham v Spurs at Craven Cottage that afternoon (a game which was subsequently moved to the Sunday).

As further testament to the international reach of the CCFC name, Parque Verde had made the initial challenge via social media before the Over 35s team was barely three months old. Since that time, there had been much anticipation around the squad for the contest, which later became apprehension at having to negotiate the TfL network for an early morning kick-off south of the river.

Played on an impressive surface (definitely worth paying the extra), the game itself was a back-and-forth affair, with chances aplenty for both teams. As predicted in the gaffer’s pre-match team talk, Parque Verde were technically proficient and rarely wasted a pass. However, CCFC were also dangerous in possession, sticking to their philosophy of playing out from the back, and frequently finding space between the lines to cause problems for the Spanish defence.

Around 20 minutes in, a beautiful team move, which started in the Clapton defence, led to the opening goal. Confidence was high, and when another blistering Clapton attack and shot nearly snapped the Parque Verde crossbar, it seemed more goals would follow. However, the team from Madrid were proving a stern test, especially in possession, and we needed to defend resolutely to protect the slim advantage.

The visitors eventually found a way through the Clapton wall shortly before half-time.  A dangerous cross from the left flank caused confusion in the home penalty area, and the ball found its way into the net via a combination of both post and bar.

With the Clapton squad rotation system in full effect, the second period continued in much the same vein, and was surely a treat for the neutrals in attendance. Ultimately, there was little to choose between the teams, and the final 1-1 draw seemed about right, given the overall balance of play.

At the conclusion of what was a highly competitive and entertaining game, both teams exchanged replica shirts, with Parque Verde also gifting CCFC a scarf, which may be on display in the OSD clubhouse very soon.  Players from both sides shared some post-match beers, further cementing relations between the two clubs, whilst talk turned to a possible rematch. I also have it on good authority that there are several brand new CCFC members with Madrid addresses.

Final Score: Clapton CFC Over 35s 1 – 1 CD Parque Verde

A big shout must go out to CCFC’s Vets’ main organiser (he’s not keen on titles) Marek Marczynski, who put in a lot of work to organise this game, but could not be there on the day due to being struck down with illness. He will no doubt be back among the group in good time for the already-proposed return fixture in Madrid later this year. Get those passports out!