AFC Croydon Athletic maintained the bragging rights in the town after doing the double over near neighbours, Croydon FC.

The local derby took place just before Christmas at the Mayfield Stadium in Thornton Heath and finished 2-1 with both the goals coming from Emmanuel Oloyede securing the victory after the visitors had taken the lead.   With the reverse fixture having finished 4-1 back in August it is a satisfying return against our local rivals, said Club Chairman, Paul Smith.

He was pleased to have secured the double but was keen to wish the South Norwood team good wishes for the rest of the season.   

He said: “Croydon FC have had a very difficult season so far and are in the midst of a relegation battle.   All at AFC Croydon Athletic hope they will do enough to remain in this division.   The games between the two sides are good encounters and we would miss them and also miss seeing our friends from the club.”

Since that victory and having reached the festive season without losing at home in the league the team slumped to three successive home defeats all finishing in 2-1 losses. The club sits in mid-table.

Up coming games see three big matches at the Mayfield Stadium.   Tunbridge Wells, who reached a Wembley FA Vase Final in 2013, are next up on Saturday January 26 and Sheppey United come to the ground on Saturday February 9.   Both teams are doing well and will be big tests with fixtures kicking off at 3pm.   Then, a midweek fixture against league title chasers Chatham Town on Tuesday February 19 at 7.45pm kick-of. This time of year is also busy for the club as the ground will host the four Croydon Municipal Sunday Football League Cup Finals over May 12 and 19 along with Under 9 and Under 11 Cup Finals of the Tandridge Football League.  

There is also plenty of work within the junior section.   Over the coming weeks there will be trials for various age groups for players aged seven and 15.  Boys and girls who are looking to play football next season under trained coaches should check out 

www.afccroydonathletic.co.uk