Geoff Ocran: «In the new season for Clapton CFC we want a home playoff semi final as a minimum target»

Geoff Ocran is the manager of Clapton Community FC,, the team playing in Southern Counties East Football League Division One, the 10th level of the football pyramid in England. Geoff spoke to SPORTS VIA HISTORY FC and Christos Kazantzoglou.

Christos Kazantzoglou: Tell us about yourself and why you are the player/coach for Clapton CFC

Geoff Ocran: My affiliation with Clapton Fans/Ultras Started when I was playing and Captaining the Clapton side that was in the Essex Senior league a while back. Then when fans approached me to player manage the breakaway version, it was an offer I couldn’t refuse in 2018.

Christos Kazantzoglou: Do you think there new division which is played will give benefit or backfire?

Geoff Ocran: I think it’s too early to say how we will be affected by the new league with the extra travelling but it’s in our DNA to rise above any challenges we face and preserve. So our aim is to finish in the playoff positions and a cup run.

Christos Kazantzoglou: What are the team's goals (or target) this year?

Geoff Ocran: As previously stated, we always look forward and try to do better than the previous season so we want a home playoff semi final as a minimum target. A cup final and a day out for the Club is also well overdue.

Christos Kazantzoglou: How do you see the team from 2018 until now?

Geoff Ocran: We still have a few players from our initial season which is always good for the foundation and continuity of the club. But we all know that Father Time unfortunately doesn’t wait for nobody so we have refreshed the squad every season. The squad is less experienced than the original squad but there is more depth in the current squad which naturally brings more competition and more headaches for us.

Christos Kazantzoglou: What do you think of the Clapton FC folded?

Geoff Ocran: I’m not sure if they have folded or are just looking to compete further down the pyramid. Since 2018 I’ve not really taken much notice of what was happening over there as we have been on a rollercoaster since we formed. It’s just a shame we don’t get to beat them in another OSD Derby!!

Christos Kazantzoglou: Last year you played two games against Clapton FC, if I know their correctly in the past played for them, what were your feelings?

Geoff Ocran: Yes I played for them and I was part of the team that finally won their first silverware since the 80’s I believe. However, my loyalty was always with the fans and considering all the complications of the court case, you could see what it meant to the fans/members to win the first ever Clapton Derby. Memories for a life time!

Christos Kazantzoglou: Clapton CFC considered to be in the professional categories in the future?

Geoff Ocran: We haven’t put a ceiling on where the club could go on the field but it’s very difficult to climb the football pyramid without serious financial backing. It’s a great dream to have but a lot of work to do before we get remotely close to the level.

Christos Kazantzoglou: Last question, what do you have to say to the Greek friends of the team?

Geoff Ocran: As always we like to thank our intentional fans in Greece for their unwavering support. We really appreciate the love especially as you can’t get to the games on a weekly basis! Stick with us and hopefully one day we can play a friendly in Greece and meet you all in person! Πάμε Clapton. ❤️

Pix’s from Clapton Community FC

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