The Moles only have two days off after their win against Fareham as they travel to Carshalton Athletic for a Velocity Cup tie.
Matchday: Monday 20th October. KO 7.45pm
Who are Carshalton Athletic FC?
Following relegation from the Conference South in their centenary season (2005–06), the club battled instability both on and off the pitch. Under new manager Hayden Bird and later owner Paul Dipre, the team gradually stabilised, introducing a new academy, changing club colours, and adopting a more progressive footballing style. Despite moments of promise, including a play-off run in 2008–09 and a memorable FA Trophy victory over Lincoln City in 2011–12, inconsistency plagued their league campaigns. Off the pitch, however, Carshalton earned national recognition as a community-focused club, receiving multiple awards and dramatically increasing revenue and local engagement.
The following decade saw continued ups and downs, with a series of managerial changes and relegations before a resurgence under player-manager Peter Adeniyi. His leadership culminated in the 2017–18 Isthmian League South Division title and promotion back to the Premier Division, where the Robins became strong contenders, finishing runners-up in 2018–19. Although the COVID-19 pandemic halted further progress during two seasons, Carshalton remained competitive, achieving mid-table stability under successive managers. Returning to Adeniyi’s guidance for the 2023–24 and 2024–25 seasons, the club finished 11th and then 7th, narrowly missing the play-offs but enjoying deep cup runs in both the FA Cup and Surrey Senior Cup.
The Velocity Cup
The Velocity Cup is the Isthmian League cup played between teams in the four Isthmian divisions; Step 3 Premier Division and Step 4; North, South East and South Central.
Last season, the Moles reached the semi-final defeating Premier Division sides Hastings United and Dulwich Hamlet on the way – before losing to eventual winners Billericay Town. Carshalton made it to the 4th round where they lost to Leatherhead on penalties.
To get to the third round, the Moles beat Hartley Wintney 2-1. Carshalton had a bye through to this round.
About The War Memorial Sports Ground
Address: War Memorial Sports Ground, Colston Avenue, Carshalton SM5 2PW
Tickets
Adults: £12
Concessions: £9
U18: £6