Horley Town made history on Saturday by defeating Tadley Calleva 3-0 in front of 390 spectators, securing a spot in the Combined Counties South Playoff Final. In the final, we will face Fleet Town, who beat Tooting & Mitcham 4-2.

The game started cagey. Horley looked the more composed side, with a solid back four defending diligently and dangerous on the attack.

The deadlock was broken early, in the 8th minute, when Horley earned a corner. Unmarked, Adam Allen produced a stunning header past the Tadley goalkeeper to give Horley the lead.

Horley maintained the momentum in the first half, combining tight defense with threatening forward play. However, the match was not without controversy — a questionable decision by the referee saw a Horley player through on goal pulled back by the Tadley centre back, yet play continued.

The game’s turning point came in stoppage time when Horley's Isaac Olaniyan received a straight red card, a decision that many felt was harsh, even drawing comments from some Tadley fans.

Tadley started strongly as expected in the second half, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Horley's defense held firm with both Joe's and Aaron Moody making crucial interceptions. When the back four were beaten the brilliant Sam Saward in goal pulled off several exceptional saves, including tipping a powerful curled shot around the post and a close-range low save, keeping Tadley at bay.

On 57 minutes, the game’s complexion shifted again as Kieran Rodgers was shown a second yellow card for Tadley after a late challenge on Sam Seward, leaving Tadley with ten men.

The game then followed a similar pattern to the first half with Horley looking dangerous in attack and defending well. The momentum swung further in Horley's favor when the referee awarded a penalty in the 81st minute, confidently converted into the bottom right corner by Ashley Sheppard, doubling the lead.

With a two-goal cushion, Horley continued to attack relentlessly. The pressure paid off in stoppage time when Horley scored their third goal in the 91st minute, sealing a memorable 3-0 victory.

This victory showcased Horley Town's resilience, character, and determination—traits we will need as we aim to secure promotion to step 4 for the first time in our history.

The final is expected to be a tight game, with Fleet only finishing above Horley on goal difference.

Playoff Final
Calthorpe Park, Fleet, GU51 5FA
Saturday, 25th April – 3:00 pm kick-off
Extra time and penalties if scores remain level.

Come and support the clarets as we chase this historic achievement!