CAFC vs Binfield FC – Preview
Following Saturday’s Isthmian League clash with Hashtag United, there’s a quick turnaround as attention shifts to the Isthmian League Cup. The Robins begin their campaign at home, welcoming Binfield FC to Colston Avenue.
Carshalton Athletic
It’s been a challenging season so far for the Robins in cup competitions. Carshalton exited the FA Cup at the first hurdle, drawing 0–0 at Colston Avenue against Wingate & Finchley, before losing 3–2 in the replay at the Maurice Rebak Stadium. In the FA Trophy, they were knocked out in the third qualifying round, losing 2–1 at home to league rivals Cheshunt.
Three days later, Carshalton exited the Surrey Senior Cup, suffering a penalty shootout defeat to AFC Whyteleafe after a thrilling 3–3 draw. The Isthmian League Cup now represents the Robins’ final opportunity for cup success this season. Entering the competition in the third round (last 32), they’ll be eager to progress with Binfield the visitors to Colston Avenue.
Last season, the Robins began their Isthmian League Cup journey in the third round at home to AFC Croydon. After Luke Dreher gave Croydon the lead, Darnell Goather-Braithwaite equalised for Carshalton. With the tie heading for penalties, Tommy Bradford struck in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 2–1 win and a place in the fourth round.
In the last 16, the Robins were again at home, this time facing Leatherhead. The visitors started fast, with Deondre Date scoring in the third minute. Luke Cook equalised for Carshalton, and the tie went to penalties. With the shootout tied at 9–9, it came down to the goalkeepers. Leatherhead’s Sonny Wheeler saved Mackenzie Foley’s effort before converting his own spot-kick to send the Tanners into the quarter-finals.
Binfield FC
Binfield compete in the Isthmian South Central Division, at Step 4 of the non-league pyramid. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season – finishing 18th, just one point clear of the drop – it’s been a difficult start to the current campaign. The Moles sat bottom of the table ahead of Saturday’s fixtures, with just 8 points from 13 games (2 wins, 2 draws, 9 defeats).
However, they impressed in the previous round of this competition, beating Hartley Wintney 2–1 to set up their clash with Carshalton. Earlier in the season, they also won their FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie 4–1 against Winslow United, showing they are capable of causing problems in one-off cup ties.
Team News
Carshalton Athletic
With a short turnaround following Saturday’s match, both managers may opt to rotate their squads. Academy prospects Donte Augustus and Joshua Koroma featured in the Surrey Senior Cup tie against AFC Whyteleafe and could return to the squad for Monday’s League Cup fixture.
Pre-Match Analysis
With both teams currently underperforming in their respective leagues, Monday night’s fixture offers a welcome break from league action – and a chance to build momentum. A place in the last 16 is up for grabs, along with a valuable confidence boost.
Carshalton, playing at home and a division above their opponents, will be favourites on paper. However, the unpredictable nature of cup football means Binfield cannot be underestimated – especially given their recent success in knockout matches.
If the scores are level after 90 minutes, the tie will be decided by a penalty shootout – something the Robins will be keen to avoid, having suffered recent heartbreak from the spot in the Surrey Senior Cup.
Match Details
Date: Monday 20th October 2025
Opponents: Binfield FC
Venue: Colston Avenue, SM5 2PW
Competition: Isthmian League Cup R3
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Admission: Adults £12, Conc £9, U18 £6,
Tickets: Here or Purchase at the turnstiles
