AFC Whyteleafe Women vs Clapton Community FC kicks off at 3:30pm on Sunday October 13 2024 at Church Road, Whyteleafe CR3 0AR.

It’s the third of three away league games on the bounce for Clapton CFC Women’s First Team with a long trip down to Surrey. After the 7-0 defeat at Brentford in a Premier League stadium in front of 3585 spectators, came the 5-1 win at Richmond Park on a park pitch in front of 30 spectators.

In between, there was the departure of the head coach but there was (in the words of defender Annie Lyons, returning from a year-long injury) a ‘no manager bounce’ with a good performance at Richmond Park. Let’s hope for another strong showing at The Leafe.

The opposition

AFC Whyteleafe was formed in 2021, to fill the void left by the loss of Whyteleafe FC which folded as a result of an Ian Rush-related property scheme. Whyteleafe finished fifth last season, one place below us, and seventh the season before. They are managed by Jack Badu, formerly of Dulwich Hamlet Reserves.

Form guide

It’s been a slow start to the season for Whyteleafe as they await their first win. However, it’s full marks for entertainment – last week’s match against Denham United finished 9-6 and their games are averaging about 8 goals.

Previous meetings

After winning our first three games against Whyteleafe in the two previous seasons we’ve been in the same division – 3-1, 3-0 and 2-0 – we lost our last meeting away 1-0.

Players to watch

Leen Winner Ekwo has scored in all 4 appearances this season – 9 in total, including all 6 in last week’s mad game against Denham. It puts the former Schalke 04 and Dulwich Hamlet striker third in the division’s top goalscorer charts.

Admission

Free entry. Alcohol is only permitted in the ground if purchased from the bar.

Transport and directions

By rail, the ground is within a 9 and 12 minute walk of Whyteleafe, Whyteleafe South and Upper Warlingham stations, respectively, and is in TfL Oyster card zone 6.

AFC Whyteleafe’s Church Road ground lies alongside the A22 between Purley and Junction 6 of the M25. 

Parking is to the right once you turn into the ground. Please do not park in the area near the clubhouse as there is limited spaces for the home team only. Alternatively there is parking on the road but please be respectful of the neighbours.