Clapton CFC Men’s Over 35s embarked on their first-ever international adventure with a friendly against Coolock Village FC in Dublin, marking a huge milestone for a team that was only formed less than a year ago. The trip combined football, camaraderie, and some unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch.

The match was played on a stunning pitch located right next to Dublin Airport, with planes descending overhead throughout the game. At times, it felt like the players were performing for the passengers above, offering a bit of pre-landing entertainment to anyone lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the action from their window seat.

Facing a much younger and energetic Coolock side, Clapton CFC nonetheless put in a tremendous performance full of grit, spirit, and flashes of quality.

The game got off to a rocky start for Clapton as Coolock took an early lead, capitalising on a quick attacking move. Their second goal was something truly special—a screamer from the edge of the box that flew past goalkeeper Phil Inkelaar with pace and precision. It was a strike that no keeper in the world could’ve stopped and was met with applause from both sides.

Despite going 2–0 down, Clapton showed real character and refused to let their heads drop. Just before the break, Dan Lipman pulled one back with a calm and composed finish to make it 2–1, breathing new life into the contest.

At half-time, Clapton rotated the squad, bringing on fresh legs to maintain the tempo. The change paid off almost immediately as Dan Lipman bagged his second of the match to draw Clapton level at 2–2. From that point on, Clapton took control, dominating possession and carving out several chances.

Jamie Foran nearly produced a moment of magic from the halfway line that would have been a contender for goal of the season, while Ollie Drew rattled the crossbar with a thunderous strike. Marek Marczynski also came close with a header that was brilliantly saved by the Coolock keeper.

But as Clapton pushed for a winner, they were caught out twice on the break in the final 15 minutes. Coolock showed their sharpness on the counter and took their chances clinically to secure a 4–2 win.

While the result didn’t go in their favour, Clapton CFC Men’s Over 35s can hold their heads high. The performance against a youthful and talented Coolock side was full of promise and fight, and the team walked off the pitch proud of how far they’ve come in such a short time.

This debut international trip was just the beginning, and the squad is already looking ahead to their next challenge: a trip to Glasgow to face the Glasgow Piraten. If Dublin was anything to go by, Clapton CFC Men’s Over 35s are ready to take on whatever comes next—on home turf or abroad.