Oakwood FC (A) Match Preview

Oakwood FC vs Punjab United, Isuzu FA Vase, Oakwood Sports & Social Club, Saturday 23rd August 2025, 3:00 PM KO

Punjab take a break from SCEFL action, as they will be turning their attention to FA Vase, as they travel to Crawley to face off against Oakwood FC.

Punjab have had a difficult start to the season, having achieved just 1 draw and 2 defeats in the Premier Division, but they hope to start their FA Vase campaign strong, and a win against Oakwood would mean a lot for the team now. So, it's safe to assume that the Punjab boys will be giving everything they have to overcome Oakwood.

Our Opposition:

Oakwood compete in the Southern Combination Football League Division One, which is at Step 6 of the English football pyramid. They are manged by Mark Gilbert. Gilbert has created a defensive oriented team, with great counter-attacking play, Gilbert is known to value collective team effort over solo performances. Gilbert also understands that Oakwood is seen as an underdog is most situations and has acknowledged this and like to use it to his advantage.

Oakwood has many noteworthy players, but there are some which rise to the occasion more than others. Harry Downer is a midfilder for Oakwood who is consistently a presence on the pitch both defensively and offensively. Another player, Bradley Smith who plays as a forward for the side, occasionally shows flashes of brilliance, with key goals in crucial matches, and will be one the Punjab defence has to look out for.

Overall, Oakwood has a tactical manager and is home to much talented players and will be more than worthy competition to Punjab. As emphasised before, a win here for Punjab is crucial, but they will certainly have to fight for it.

History:

The club's most notable achievement came in the 2005–06 season when they won the Sussex County League Division Two title, securing promotion to Division One. They stayed in Division One until the 2010–11 season, when they were relegated back to Division Two.

In recent years, Oakwood FC has been competing in the Southern Combination Football League Division One, which is at Step 6 of the National League System. They continue to play their home matches at Oakwood Sports & Social Club on Tinsley Lane in Crawley.

Throughout its history, Oakwood FC has been known for its strong community ties and commitment to developing local talent, making it a respected club in the Sussex football scene.

Travel & Ticketing Information

The journey from The Steve Cook Stadium to Oakwood Sports & Social Club takes around 51 minutes when travelling by car.

The closest station to the ground is Gatwick Airport which from there takes 6 minutes to get to the ground by car.

Oakwood Football Club

Tinsley Lane

Crawley

RH10 8AT

Adults £8

Concessions £5

U16's £4

How to follow the game:

There will be live updates during the game on Punjab's’ Twitter / X page.

A post-match interview with the gaffer will also be posted on our YouTube channel and other social media platforms after the game.

We hope to see you there at Oakwood Sports & Social Club.

Thank you for reading - Written by Sahib Singh Khera