CAFC Women vs Sutton United – Preview
Following the Robins’ 4–1 league win at Merstham on Sunday, attention quickly turns to cup action as Carshalton Athletic host local rivals Sutton United in the 2nd Round of the Isthmian League Cup on Tuesday night at Colston Avenue.
Sutton United
Sutton United compete in the London and South East Women’s Regional Premier Division – the fifth tier of women’s football – two divisions above Carshalton. They currently sit 5th in the table with three wins, one draw, and three defeats.
Sutton come into the match in good form, having won their last four games in all competitions. Recent victories include league wins over Barking and Aylesford, as well as FA Cup triumphs against Burgess Hill Town and, most recently, Penn & Tylers Green.
Carshalton Athletic
Carshalton Athletic have made a perfect start to their league campaign, winning all three of their opening fixtures. A dominant 9–0 win at Manorcroft set the tone, followed by a hard-fought 3–2 stoppage-time victory over Dorking Wanderers U23s. On Sunday, the Robins came from behind to win 4–1 away at Merstham, with goals from Dee Badley (2), Heather Eade, and Kenza Gueriani.
Head to Head
The two sides met in a friendly at the end of last season, with Carshalton running out 4–1 winners. However, Sutton turned the tables in a pre-season encounter earlier this year, winning 3–1.
Sutton United’s Reserves, who compete in Carshalton’s division, have made a strong start themselves, winning all of their league games so far. With the short turnaround from the weekend, Sutton may have to dip into their reserves for squad rotation or to cover any injuries.
Team News
Dee Badley continued her fine form with a brace at Merstham, meaning she has now scored in every competitive fixture this season. Her tally includes goals against Manorcroft, Dorking, South London (FA Cup), and Merstham. Manager Aaron Lamont will likely look to Badley again on Tuesday as she continues to impress following her summer move from Croydon FC.
Isthmian League Cup
Last season marked Carshalton’s debut in the Isthmian League Cup. They edged out Guernsey on penalties in Round 1 after a draw in normal time, but were eliminated in the last 16 following a 4–1 loss to fifth-tier Haringey Borough, despite a spirited performance.
The competition was eventually won by Chatham Town (Tier 4), who beat third-tier Billericay Town in the final.
Pre-Match Analysis
With a two-tier gap between the teams, Sutton are favourites on paper. However, Carshalton’s strong early-season form and their previous friendly win over Sutton will give them confidence. The one-off nature of cup football always opens the door for an upset, and Lamont will want his side to start fast and make life difficult for the visitors.
If the scores are level after 90 minutes, the match will go straight to penalties – good news for the neutrals, but a nerve-racking prospect for players and fans alike.
Match Details
Date: Tuesday 7th October, 2025
Opposition: Sutton United Women
Competition: Isthmian League Cup Round 2
Venue: Colston Avenue
Kickoff: 8:00 pm
Admission: FREE
