East London-based Clapton Community Football Club played their first men’s match at the Old Spotted Dog last Saturday. Nearly a thousand locals attended the game, seeing their side beat Kensington Dragons 3-0
Based in Forest Gate, Clapton Community Football Club is a non-league side sitting in the 11th tier of the English football pyramid. Formed only five years ago, the club is 100% fan-owned, born out of the ashes of disgruntled Clapton FC fans, who opposed how the club was being run.
Being top of the league, Clapton Community Football Club are on course to be promoted to the 10th tier, pending ground approval from the FA. While the players have been doing their part on the field, away from it the community have managed to raise over £15,000 to make their ground, The Old Spotted Dog, suitable for league football going forward.
Clapton Community Football Club are also known for their inclusive, left-wing beliefs, standing against many prejudices that their supporters say exist in modern football.
Rising East reporters Harry Briffa and Matthew Murphy attended the Old Spotted Dog, on a momentous occasion for Clapton Community Football Club.