In a thrilling league encounter at Clanfield Football Club on 23 March 2025, Clanfield Robins secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Oxford City in a massive 6 pointer. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, with both teams eager to claim vital points in the league standings.
Clanfield Robins lined up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Fynn Howlett took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Owen Morrison and Sam Crook as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Oliver Smith and Conrad Eduah forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Harvey Minion and Wojciech Korniluk operated centrally, while Sam Leahy and Ben Wright provided width on the flanks. Joe Osborne played just behind the lone striker, Luca Roberts, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing off chances.
The substitutes for Clanfield Robins included Beau Keeble and Charles Collis, who would be called upon later in the match.
The opening exchanges saw Clanfield Robins assert their dominance, and they were rewarded early on. Just five minutes into the match, Luca Roberts found the back of the net, converting a short pass from Sam Leahy inside the box with his right foot. This early goal set the tone for the home side, who continued to press for more.
As the half progressed, Clanfield maintained their pressure, and their efforts paid off again in the 30th minute. Luca Roberts struck once more, tapping in from close range after a great effort from Ben Wright was parried by the City Keeper into his path. With a two-goal cushion, Clanfield looked in control, but the game took a turn when Sam Leahy had to be substituted due to injury, making way for Beau Keeble.
Joe Osborne nearly extended the lead further in the 35th minute, but his attempted header was saved, showcasing the brilliant athleticism of the Oxford City Keeper. The first half concluded with Clanfield Robins leading 2-0, leaving Oxford City with much to ponder during the break.
The second half began with early tactical adjustments from Clanfield, as Charles Collis replaced Sam Crook in the 53rd minute. Shortly after, Sam Leahy returned to the pitch, coming on for Beau Keeble in the 55th minute, as Clanfield sought to regain their rhythm.
However, Oxford City FC found their footing and pulled a goal back in the 60th minute, scoring from inside the box with a left-footed strike. This goal injected new life into the visitors, who began to press for an equaliser.
In response, Clanfield's defence was put to the test. Fynn Howlett made a crucial save in the 70th minute palming the ball away to safety, preventing a certain goal and maintaining his side's slender lead. Owen Morrison also stepped up in the 78th minute, executing a vital tackle to thwart another Oxford City attack which typified the Robins resilience.
As the match drew to a close, Clanfield Robins held firm against the late pressure from their opponents. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Clanfield, a result that highlighted their never say die attitude and tactical discipline throughout the match and will go a long way to securing A league status for the 25/26 season.
