20Jan02: Cambridge City v Croydon Cambridge endured another brutal lesson during this season's foray into the Premier League, as a weakened Croydon side defeated them 25-8 at the Perse School. In a one-sided and ultimately rather bland match, Croydon were unable to call upon Andy Withers and Dave Butters, so Ryan Dring and Joseph Furlano were drafted into the first team. Cambridge looked to be fielding something close to a full strength first team. Any hopes that Cambridge could provide an upset disappeared in the first few minutes as Croydon raced into a 5-0 lead. There was a steady stream of first half goals from Croydon, including 4 each from Ivan Aquino and Steve Jones, punctuated by four goals from Cambridge, including two penalties. Half time score was 13-4 to Croydon. The second half continued in much the same vein as the first. With about ten minutes to go, Croydon had extended the lead to 24-5. Cambridge did manage to give the scoreline a modicum of respectability, with three late goals, including two penalties. Final score was 25-8 to Croydon. Croydon have dished out a number of hammerings to Cambridge in the last six months - this was the fourth - and this performance was as convincing as any, particularly considering the absence of two first team men. Barring the last ten minutes, the defence maintained a high level of tempo throughout. One cause for concern may be the number of penalties conceded. The four in this game made little difference to the outcome, but in closer encounters, notably against Nomads and Mitcham, the penalty count has been significant. As for Cambridge, the fact that they only scored four goals from open play highlights the absence of natural goalscorers. But the nature of the set-up in Cambridge is that there is a high turnover of players, meaning that the National League team can always pick up some experienced players in the close season. Also, the extensive youth system should start to bear fruit in the next few years. This season may end in relegation, but it should give the city's many players an opportunity to see some of the country's best players in action. Hopefully, that will inspire a few. Match Report by Andy Final Score: Cambridge City 1 8 vs 25 Croydon 1There were no Croydon scorers in this game.
LDKA Premier League: Woking 1 vs Croydon 3 Final Score: Woking 1 18 vs 13 Croydon 3There were no Croydon scorers in this game.
