​Casuals Turn up the Heat in Pre-Season

Corinthian-Casuals 2-2 Sutton United
Pre Season Friendly
Saturday 12th July 2025
Report and Photos - Stuart Tree (photo set here)
More images from Andy Nunn here.

Corinthian-Casuals came from 2-0 down to achieve a worthy draw against a youthful Sutton United side in 30 degrees of heat on Saturday.

Rafael Barbosa and new signing Rae Bailey-Allen put Casuals on level terms with the latter scoring a wonderful individual top-corner strike.

And Shea Cascoe Rogers had a sure-fire penalty waved away late in proceedings which would’ve completed the comeback, and thus had to settle for a 2-2 scoreline.

The result sees Corinth’s pre-season continue to progress well, but they face their toughest test on Tuesday night as they travel to Step 3 Basingstoke in their own back yard.

“Things are coming on quite nicely, but I wasn't really that pleased with the first half performance,” said Manager Mu Maan after the game. “I think we were slow out of the blocks against a young, energetic Sutton. They are a good side. Also, it was roasting hot which played its part. But second half, we looked more like the team that that we're trying to be and I think we were very well structured.

“We came from 2-0 down so it was good to see that fighting spirit. We were 2-0 down against Burnham and came back from that to level the score too. It’s a good sign to have that mentality, but I'd rather be in front than behind in the first place.

“Gabs and I had a word with the boys at half time, just about having a structure as we looked a little bit disjointed. Sutton were full of energy. They'll run for 90 minutes! So, we had to remind them to be disciplined with their position. It's a hot day, and you can't get dragged around the whole pitch. We really improved on that in the second half and got our rewards.

“This was a good test. Tuesday at Basingstoke will be tough! I’d rather get tested against higher levels. No disrespect to Burnham or Chessington who we have already faced but Basingstoke are two levels higher. Croydon Athletic at home here on Saturday too will again show us where we are and where we need to be.”
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