Hitchin Athletic dominate as Heaton AFC hold top spot

Friday 31 July 2026 provided a few uncomfortable afternoons for the league's travelling parties. Hitchin Athletic were the day's most efficient, recording a 4-0 win over Brixton AFC. It was a professional display, though Brixton spent most of the match looking like they were playing in a gale. Kirkby FC also found their range, scoring five in a 5-2 win against Aigburth FC.

Elsewhere, the results were more modest. Mancunia FC edged past Wessex United 3-2 in a match that was allegedly a contest. Beeston AFC managed a 1-0 win over Jesmond AFC, while Acton United and Pendle Athletic both secured narrow 1-0 victories. Edgbaston FC took care of Wigston FC 3-1, and Stepney FC travelled well to beat Sussex Athletic 3-1. Crookes United fell 2-1 to Heaton AFC. Wellsford Athletic and Marlborough United shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

The table remains a tight affair. Heaton AFC sit top with 14 points, having used their win over Crookes to keep a slim lead. Jesmond AFC and Mancunia FC follow in second and third, both on 12 points. Jesmond will have to be pleased with their position, despite the loss to Beeston.

In the golden boot race, Wilson Astbury remains the man to beat with five goals. He is currently the most reliable finisher in the division (at least on paper).

There is little time to reset for the clubs involved. With the ClawFA schedule operating daily, the focus shifts immediately to tomorrow.