Clapton CFC Men’s First Team exited the London Senior Trophy at the quarter-final stage with a frustrating 2–0 defeat away to Tooting Bec in Chipstead.
CCFC were undone by two goals from set pieces – one in each half – and spurned the few chances that came their way.
The match began with an early flashpoint as a heavy challenge on Julian Austin earned Tooting Bec a first-minute booking. That set the tone for a largely scrappy game low on clear chances, with Tooting enjoying the greater share of possession for the first 30 minutes or so.
Clapton’s first meaningful opening arrived just after the half-hour mark when Fred Taylor forced his way into the box but his shot was saved by the legs of the goalkeeper. Minutes later, Adam Sidky had a header from a James Briggs corner saved by the keeper diving low to the left.
However, just as it looked as though CCFC were taking control, Tooting struck right on half-time. A corner was headed back across goal and, amid a crowded six-yard box, Anthony Ogbanufe bundled the ball home.
Clapton started the second half with renewed intent and came closest to equalising when Chatlie Fagan’s header was saved, followed by a brief goalmouth scramble that came to nothing.
The game became increasingly stop-start, punctuated by bookings and lengthy delays, before a key moment potentially swung Clapton’s way when Tooting were reduced to ten men after a second yellow card.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, it was Tooting who delivered the decisive blow late on. Another corner was initially cleared, but the ball was recycled back into the box, where Dan Farrow rose unmarked at the back post to head home and make it 2–0 with just minutes remaining.
A subdued performance saw Clapton knocked out of their final cup competition so we’ll be concentrating on the league from now on.
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