The last time these two sides met at Low Hall Sports Ground, it was a bitter winter’s day—and the Gary Oldmen came away with the spoils. Fast forward to spring, and the weather wasn’t the only thing that had changed. With the sun shining down, Clapton CFC had a bolstered squad, new signings in the mix, and several key players returning from injury.
Unfortunately, player-manager Chris was ruled out late with illness. But stepping into the breach was none other than team treasurer, secretary, full-back — and all-round legend — Marek, who came armed with a magnetic tactics board, much to the delight of the Clapton strikeforce.
After warm-ups and a rousing team talk, the match kicked off… and got off to the worst possible start. A scrappy corner saw the visitors take the lead inside two minutes. But Clapton held firm, with the midfield and defence growing into the game and starting to dominate possession.
On the 15-minute mark, a fluid attack and cheeky headed assist led to a composed finish, leveling the score. Moments later, a perfectly whipped free kick met a late run at the back post—2–1 to Clapton and a deserved lead going into the break.
The second half began just as strongly. Within 10 minutes, it was 3–1—this time from a set-piece masterclass. A corner was half-cleared, and the ball fell to a Clapton full-back 30 yards out, who volleyed it back into the box and over the keeper, nestling it into the top corner. Was it a cross? Was it a shot? We’ll let the crowd decide.
Clapton weren’t done. A swift counter-attack saw a long ball taken down beautifully and tucked away with calm precision—4–1 and cruising.
But the Oldmen weren’t finished either. With 10 minutes to go, they found two quick goals to make it 4–3, setting up a nervy finish. Clapton’s defence, however, dug in and saw the game out to claim a well-earned win.
Be sure to look out for the big ‘decider’ with our next game Vs the Oldmen coming in the next few months.
Final Score: Clapton CFC 4 – 3 Gary Oldmen
Goal scorers: Martin x2, Notty and Jim
Dominic Amodio