CAFC vs Dulwich Hamlet – Preview
Following Saturday’s 1–0 defeat at Billericay, the Robins return to Colston Avenue this weekend as they prepare to take on Dulwich Hamlet.
Carshalton Athletic
The Robins head into the clash with Dulwich Hamlet following a challenging period. Carshalton have been without a victory since a 3–2 win away at Lewes in November. Since then, they have drawn 1–1 at home to Aveley before suffering a 2–1 defeat at St Albans City, where two late goals from the hosts turned the game on its head.
Carshalton were without Matt Kerbey due to suspension for the home fixture against Cray Valley, with Luke Read stepping up in goal. Despite a strong performance, the Robins fell to a narrow 1–0 defeat. They were then minutes away from securing all three points at Wingate & Finchley, leading 2–1 deep into stoppage time, but conceded a late equaliser and had to settle for a draw.
In the final game before Christmas, the Robins travelled to Billericay and battled well but ultimately fell to a 1–0 defeat, with Elliot Long’s first-half goal proving decisive. Carshalton currently sit 18th in the table and will be looking to bounce back against Dulwich Hamlet – a side they have beaten at home in each of the past two seasons.
Dulwich Hamlet
Dulwich Hamlet Football Club was formed in 1893, when local organiser Lorraine “Pa” Wilson helped establish a team for young players in the Dulwich area of South London. The club soon became part of the developing amateur game, joining the Dulwich League before becoming a founding member of the Isthmian League in 1907.
Over the following decades, Dulwich Hamlet established itself as one of England’s leading amateur sides, winning multiple Isthmian League titles and FA Amateur Cups, while Champion Hill became its long-term home. That strong foundation helped shape a club identity rooted in tradition, community and competitive football.
In the modern era, Dulwich’s journey has continued to define its character. While much of the late 20th and early 21st century was spent within the Isthmian League system, the club maintained strong local support. Its distinctive pink and blue colours, coupled with a growing reputation for inclusivity and community engagement, brought wider attention as attendances rose.
A major turning point came during the 2017–18 season, when Dulwich Hamlet won the Isthmian League Premier Division play-offs to secure promotion to the National League South – the highest level in the club’s history. The achievement brought higher-level football to Champion Hill, along with record crowds and increased national exposure.
Dulwich spent five seasons at Step 2, competing against larger and more financially powerful clubs. Although survival was often hard-fought, the period was one of ambition and growth both on and off the pitch. Relegation back to the Isthmian League Premier Division in 2022–23 ended that spell, but much of the progress made during those years has been retained.
Alongside first-team developments, the club has continued to expand its community role, including the growth of the women’s team, increased youth involvement and strong supporter engagement. Today, Dulwich Hamlet remains one of non-league football’s most recognisable clubs.
Last season proved challenging, with Dulwich finishing 18th, just five points clear of relegation. This campaign has shown improvement, with the Hamlet currently sitting 10th after 23 games, just five points outside the play-off places ahead of their trip to Carshalton.
Head to Head
The sides met on Boxing Day last season at Champion Hill. In front of a crowd of 2,883, Kreshnic Krasniqi scored from a corner after 10 minutes to give Dulwich the lead. The Robins pushed for an equaliser but were unable to find one, with the hosts running out 1–0 winners.
The teams met again on Easter Monday, the penultimate league fixture of the season. With Dulwich already mathematically safe and Carshalton looking to build momentum ahead of a Surrey Senior Cup semi-final, the Robins produced a dominant display.
Goals from Fabio Saraiva and David Smith (2) gave Carshalton a 3–0 half-time lead, with Smith narrowly missing the chance to complete a first-half hat-trick from the penalty spot. Dylan Pepe added a stunning fourth from distance before Saunders-Henry made it five late on. Goalkeeper Mackenzie Foley was introduced as an outfield player following an injury to Michael Dada, before David Bremang scored a late consolation in stoppage time as Carshalton ran out emphatic 5–1 winners.
Team News
Carshalton Athletic
Dwayne Campina Do Vale was named on the bench for the first time on Saturday against Billericay. The youngster, who has joined on a short-term loan from Colchester United, did not feature but will be pushing for minutes this weekend as he looks to gain valuable experience in senior men’s football.
Pre-Match Analysis
Despite heading into the clash without a win in five matches, there have been encouraging signs for the Robins. Each of the three defeats during that run has been by a single-goal margin, underlining how competitive Carshalton have remained. Late goals conceded have proved costly, but manager Peter Adeniyi will be focused on converting performances into points as his side look to move up the table.
Carshalton also have a strong recent home record against Dulwich Hamlet, having recorded a 5–1 victory last season and a 3–0 win during the 2023–24 campaign.
Key Player
Toby Bull has quickly established himself as an important figure at Dulwich Hamlet, combining modern goalkeeping qualities with strong non-league grounding. Signed ahead of the 2025–26 season, Bull arrived at Champion Hill with a reputation as a confident, ball-playing goalkeeper capable of playing a key role in Dulwich’s progression.
Born in Worthing in 2003, Bull came through Brighton’s academy system before gaining valuable experience on loan and permanently with clubs including Worthing, Merstham, Aveley and Lewes. He also featured for the Robins during the 2023–24 campaign, further strengthening his understanding of the level.
Bull’s style suits Dulwich’s approach, with comfort in possession, composure under pressure and reliable distribution from the back. Despite his young age, he has shown maturity, strong reflexes and command of his penalty area, earning trust as first-choice goalkeeper.
Away from the traditional league structure, Bull has also gained wider recognition through his involvement in the Baller League, a fast-paced competition that has helped further develop his confidence in high-pressure situations. His vocal presence and leadership have already played a role in organising Dulwich’s defence this season.
The Gaffer
Mark Dacey was appointed manager of Dulwich Hamlet’s men’s first team on 5 May 2025, ushering in a new chapter as the club looked to rebuild and regain momentum.
Dacey’s connection with Dulwich predates his appointment. The club had tracked him for some time, recalling his earlier involvement at Champion Hill and his work under figures such as Gavin Rose and Junior Kadi. That background gave the board confidence in his understanding of the club’s culture and values.
Before taking the reins at Dulwich, Dacey built his managerial reputation at several non-league clubs, including Sevenoaks Town and SE Dons. His most notable spell came at Rayners Lane, where his side enjoyed impressive results despite challenging circumstances, playing an attacking brand of football, scoring freely and lifting the Middlesex FA Cup.
Selected from a field of more than 50 applicants, Dacey impressed the board with his belief in the Pink and Blue and his desire to reconnect the club with its identity. On his appointment, he spoke of being “beyond honoured” and of wanting to restore “spark and excitement” while strengthening the bond between team and community.
Dacey began the 2025–26 season with fresh momentum, further strengthening his backroom staff in June with the appointment of Junior James as assistant manager. Early signs point towards a renewed emphasis on entertaining football and growing confidence within the squad as Dulwich look to push higher up the Isthmian League table.
Match Details
Date: Saturday 27th December 2025
Opponents: Dulwich Hamlet
Venue: Colston Avenue, SM5 2PW
Competition: Isthmian Premier League
Kick-off: 3pm
Admission: Adults £12, Conc £9, U18 £6, Women & Girls FREE
Tickets: Here or Purchase at the turnstiles
