Excitement is pulsing for Barkingside FC as they host local rivals Clapton FC at the Cricklefield Stadium on Friday, with ‘The Side’ hoping to create light on a mere nothing season with a victory.
Currently sat 12th in the Essex Senior League, Barkingside are hoping to take the victory home again following the seasons previous heated 1-0 win against Clapton who are in 3rd position.
That game saw an attendance of over 400 fans with another big turnout expected again for Clapton to seek revenge in a fiery East London derby.
The pressure is on for the east London team after suffering a huge 7-1 defeat on Tuesday against Ryman Premier side, Dulwich Hamlets, in the London FA Senior Cup. Side’s striker Luke With scored the only goal and is determined to carry on scoring for the team on Friday.
Inconsistances
The Sides inconsistent form has meant they are left with little to fight for, with 3 wins, 1 loss and 2 draws since the turn of the year.
Although East London bragging rights are at play Barkingside are in no danger of relegation this season, but need to keep up the hard work.
With two games in hand, and only one point off second spot, Clapton have more to play for on Friday evening.
Home Advantage
After completely dominating the reverse fixture back in November and still coming out losers Clapton will no doubt be eager to strike a similar blow to their rivals.
This will be Clapton’s first competitive game since their 1-0 victory over Waltham Forrest on the 4th February.
It’s expected there will be a big turn out from the “Clapton Ultras” following the end of the fans’ boycott.
