Match Preview: Phoenix vs Corinthian

Phoenix back in league action under the lights on Friday.

Kristian Campbell in action for Phoenix

Phoenix return to league action on Friday evening as they welcome Corinthian for the opening fixture of the SCEFL Groundhop 2025 weekend. A big crowd is expected and the club is pulling out all the stops to make it a memorable night both on and off the pitch.

Jake Goodman was confirmed as first team manager this week after a successful spell in caretaker charge. Goodman, assisted by coach James Marrs, guided the team to two wins and a draw from his three interim matches and will now look to continue that momentum.

Goodman’s first results included a Vase win over Sporting Bengal United, a draw at Punjab United and an impressive 4-1 victory against Hythe Town. That night saw goals from Lyle Della-Verde, Goodman himself, Jerson Dos Santos, and Tyler Anderson in a strong team performance.

There will be a familiar figure in the visiting dugout. Former Phoenix boss Keith McMahon, who departedjust under a year ago, is now in charge of Corinthian. The Hoops have struggled in the league so far with just one win – away at Stansfeld in early September – but they are enjoying their FA Vase run, having seen off Horley Town and Reigate Priory to set up a third-round tie against Staines & Lammas. Their last league outing, however, ended in a heavy 4-0 defeat at Snodland Town.

With the Groundhop spotlight on the Christopher Russell tonight, the club is aiming to deliver a real occasion. Supporters can enjoy a second outdoor bar alongside the main clubhouse, a pizza truck to complement the tea hut as well as merchandise and printed programmes. 

The Christopher Russell Stadium is easily accessible on public transport:

• By train: Barnehurst Station is just a 10-minute walk from the ground—this line runs regularly through Travelcard Zone 5

• By bus: The 492 stops directly outside the ground

• From central London: A direct Southeastern train from Charing Cross to Barnehurst takes around 40 minutes

There is parking in the school opposite the ground parking in the side streets that surround the ground. With a larger than usual attendance expected we're expecting it to be busier than usual.

Tickets for the match are available online here via the Fanbase app or by cash and card on the gate.

Tickets are priced at:

Adults - £10

Over 65s - £5

U16s - FREE

Season tickets are valid for for this game.