Croydon Athletic bowed out of the FA Trophy at the first hurdle on Saturday, falling 3-1 to AFC Whyteleafe at Carshalton Athletic’s War Memorial Sports Ground in front of just over 100 spectators. The Rams were forced to play away from Mayfield Stadium as final works continue on their home ground.
Despite the scoreline, Danny Kedwell’s side produced a spirited performance and created enough chances to trouble the visitors, particularly after the break.
Kadell Daniel put Croydon ahead midway through the first half with a fine strike from distance, but the lead was short-lived. Ryan Gondoh levelled almost immediately before Eniola Hassan turned the tie around with a composed finish just minutes later. As half-time approached, Stefan Ilic added a third with a precise effort into the far corner.
Croydon looked for a response as Reece Grant and David Bremang both went close, while Daniel himself forced a good save in a one-on-one. An early injury to David Boateng disrupted the Rams’ rhythm, with James Dunne introduced before the interval.
The second half saw Croydon take control, pinning Whyteleafe back for long spells. Nya Kirby thought he had reduced the deficit only to be denied by the assistant’s flag for offside, while Harvey Kedwell, Grant, and Daniel all had opportunities that narrowly went begging. At the other end, Tangara produced one sharp stop to keep the deficit at two, but otherwise the visitors rarely threatened.
In the end, Whyteleafe held firm to secure their place in the First Qualifying Round, where they will face Southall FC.
Next-up: For Croydon, attention quickly turns back to league action as they travel to Beckenham Town next weekend, aiming to continue their unbeaten start in the campaign.
