CAFC vs Cray Wanderers – Preview
Following a narrow defeat at Brentwood Town, the Robins return to Colston Avenue on Saturday, looking to get back to winning ways against Cray Wanderers.
Carshalton Athletic
It’s been a difficult few weeks for Carshalton. Since their win over Billericay at Colston Avenue, the Robins have suffered league defeats to Dartford, Chichester, and most recently, Brentwood Town – leaving them with just six points from their opening six games. A disappointing FA Cup exit at the hands of Wingate & Finchley has added to a frustrating start.
However, the recent return of Ricky Korboa has lifted spirits both within the squad and among the fans. After a congested fixture schedule, the Robins will welcome a full week of preparation ahead of Saturday’s clash with Cray Wanderers.
Cray Wanderers FC
Cray Wanderers finished strongly last season, ending the campaign in 10th place with 61 points – an impressive turnaround after sitting in the relegation zone with just 15 points from their first 16 games.
They’ve carried that momentum into this season, picking up 11 points from their first six matches (three wins, two draws, and one defeat). The standout result so far was a 1–0 away win at Billericay, achieved despite playing most of the second half with 10 men following Quade Taylor’s red card.
However, Cray are currently winless in four across all competitions. That run includes a heavy 5–1 home defeat to Brentwood Town, an FA Cup draw and replay defeat to Hanwell Town, and a credible 2–2 draw away to Lewes on Saturday.
Head to Head
Last season saw Carshalton make their first-ever trip to the newly built Flamingo Park stadium in November. In a dramatic match, Carshalton’s David Smith – who had started the season with Cray – saw his first-half penalty saved by Shaun Rowley. Aziz Sankoh gave the Robins the lead, but Nathan Jeche equalised for Cray. A red card for Kwaku Frimpong just before half-time meant Carshalton played the second half with 10 men, but the match ended 1–1.
In the return fixture at Colston Avenue in March, Carshalton again took the lead, this time through Fabio Saraiva. Victor Damyanov equalised in the 73rd minute, but in the eighth minute of stoppage time, a free-kick rebounded off the post and fell to Saunders-Henry, who headed home to secure a dramatic win for the Robins.
Team News
Carshalton Athletic
Ricky Korboa and Olly Hamstead rejoined the Robins last week and both started against Brentwood Town. They’ll be hoping to keep their places in the side. Kola Salami is finding form, having scored in his last two starts, and will also be pushing for another start on Saturday.
Pre-Match Analysis
With Carshalton winless in their last five and Cray without a win in four, both managers will be eager to reset and regroup. With no midweek games for either side, preparation could be the deciding factor.
Cray have made the stronger start, collecting eleven points to Carshalton’s six. However, home advantage could be a key factor for the Robins. With only two Isthmian Premier League fixtures scheduled this Saturday due to the FA Cup, this match presents a valuable opportunity for both sides to climb the table.
Key Player
Chris Dickson began his career in 2004 with Erith & Belvedere and, at 40 years old, is still finding the net. He’s already scored twice for Cray Wanderers this season, netting in wins against Canvey Island and Billericay.
Dickson brings a wealth of experience, having played for the likes of Charlton Athletic, Gillingham, and Bristol Rovers, and earning caps for Ghana. He’s even featured – and scored – in European competitions, notably for AEL Limassol against Marseille. Now in his second spell at Cray, he’s closing in on 300 career goals and remains a major threat up front.
The Gaffer
Tim O’Shea was appointed permanent manager of Cray Wanderers ahead of the 2025/26 season. He joined the club in 2022 as assistant to Neil Smith and stepped in as caretaker following Smith’s departure in March 2025. His strong finish to the season earned him the job full-time.
This is O’Shea’s first permanent managerial post since 2011, when he was in charge of Lewes. He also previously managed Grays Athletic and Croydon Athletic. With deep knowledge of the club and a solid start – 11 points from six games – O’Shea will be hoping to push Cray into playoff contention this season.
Match Details
Date: Saturday 13th September 2025
Venue: Colston Avenue
Kick-off: 3pm
Admission: Adult: £12, Concession: £9, U18: £6, Women & Girls: Free
Tickets: buy tickets here
