Cranleigh’s strong start to 2025 continued with a hard-fought 4-2 victory over a talented Banstead Rovers side at Fort Snoxhall. The result marked another crucial three points for the team, now with four wins in their last six games, showcasing their growing momentum under the joint management of Paul Jones and Sam Carpenter.
Once again, competition for places was fierce, with five players left out of the matchday squad due to excellent numbers and consistent training performances. The depth in the squad is proving a real asset as Cranleigh navigate their promising start to the year.
Fixtures & Results
League table
The match kicked off in front of a lively crowd of 40, and although it took Cranleigh some time to settle, they eventually took the lead. A moment of misfortune for Banstead’s keeper saw George Barrett’s whipped free kick from 40 yards spilled into the path of Josh Kipping, who made no mistake in capitalising to notch his second goal in three games.
Banstead responded quickly, showing why they are a top side. Their in-form striker Taryn Smith equalised in the 20th minute after a well-worked move down the flank. A low cross from the winger found Smith, who clinically slotted home to make it 1-1.
The remainder of the first half was a tight midfield battle, with both teams creating opportunities. Makenzie went close with a header, and Emin Can Acar was played in brilliantly by Barrett but hesitated to pull the trigger. Banstead had a free kick opportunity after a sensible foul from Jake C, who earned a yellow card for his efforts, but the effort was off target. The half ended with the teams locked at 1-1.
Cranleigh stepped up in the second half, gradually finding their rhythm. The breakthrough came from some excellent play down the right by RJ, whose cross was dummied by Emin and finished with precision by Jonny Abaya into the bottom corner.
Banstead, however, showed their resilience and hit back to equalise once more. Smith, a constant thorn in Cranleigh’s defence, grabbed his second of the game to level the score at 2-2.
Jones and Carpenter then made changes that proved decisive. Substitute Arthur Fuller made an immediate impact, winning a penalty after being brought down by the Banstead keeper. Captain for the day George Barrett stepped up and smashed the spot-kick down the middle to restore Cranleigh’s lead.
Cranleigh’s fourth goal sealed the win and came courtesy of another substitute contribution. Fuller turned provider, playing the ball across to Ryan Taini, who took a touch before firing a brilliant strike into the bottom corner.
Banstead’s frustration boiled over in the final minutes as they were reduced to 10 men, while Paolo Luke received two quick yellow cards to even up the numbers. Despite the chaotic ending, Cranleigh held firm defensively, with standout performances from the backline.
Man of the Match was deservedly awarded to Ben Beazley, who delivered a superb defensive display, continuing his excellent form in recent months.
Full Time: Cranleigh Frists 4-2 Banstead Rovers
Come on you Cranes!
