Having been in the doldrums of many years, Clapton’s fortunes took an upturn in the second decade of this century with the coming of The Ultras, whose flag waving, pyro fuelled enthusiasm boosted crowds at the Old Spotted Dog from low double figures to over 500 on occasions. These supporters became disillusioned with Clapton FC however, and moved on to form Clapton CFC in 2018.

Brief History:

Clapton FC have a long and illustrious history. Formed in 1877 as Downs FC, the name Clapton was adopted a year later. Having originally played at Hackney Downs, Clapton moved into the Old Spotted Dog ground in 1887, where they remained until 2019 when their lease was not renewed but was controversially awarded to breakaway club, Clapton Community FC. After a season ground sharing at Southend Manor, The Tons have subsequently taken up residence at the Terence McMillan Stadium.

Twice winners of the Isthmian League and five times winners of the FA Amateur Cup, Clapton’s most recent success was in the Gordon Brasted Memorial Trophy in 2016. Since losing their Isthmian League status in 2006, Clapton’s best finish in the Essex Senior League came in 2016-17 when they were runners-up to Barking.

Previous Meetings:

Romford and Clapton have met 12 times in competitive fixtures since 1992 with Romford winning 10 times and losing just once. The most recent of those fixtures was in 2009 when Boro beat The Tons 7-1 in an Essex Senior League game played at Aveley. Most recently, Boro have met Clapton in two friendlies, one at the end of the 2020-21 season, when Clapton won 2-0, and then at the start of the 2021-22 season when Boro won 3-1.

Last Season:

Clapton finished 18th in the Essex Senior League last season, finishing just two points above the relegation places. In the FA Cup, Clapton beat Hoddesdon Town in the Extra-Preliminary Round before losing at home to AFC Dunstable. In the FA Vase, Clapton were exempt to the First Round Proper, where they lost 2-0 at home to Beckenham Town.

Clapton’s leading scorer last season was Darnell Kithambo, who scored just once for Boro, but netted 8 times for The Tons.

Home Ground and How to Get There:

Like Athletic Newham, Clapton play at the Terence McMillan Stadium. The stadium has one stand with seats for 192 spectators and is named after the first Mayor of Newham. The full address of the ground is 281 Prince Regent Lane, E13 8SD, and it is easily accessible by road, being just off the A13 at the Stratford/Plaistow exit for the A112, and by public transport, with Plaistow (District Line) and Prince Regent (DLR) stations within easy reach. Buses 473 and 376 stop close to the ground.

Website:
https://claptonfc.com/

Twitter:
@ClaptonFootball