Tons had a double whammy on Saturday (9 July 2016) when they walked away with the new Water Tull Cup, which has been created to honour one of England’s first black professional football players. The inaugural event, which was hosted by the club and sanctioned by the London Football Association and the Essex Senior League took place with AC London (from the Southern Counties East League) and Hackney Wick FC (from the Middlesex League).

The day started with the official opening of the Walter Tull Gates, by local councillor, Winston Vaughan, followed by the kick off the first match of  AC London and Hackney Wicks FC. The Tons were the victors on the day after all matches played, winning by just one point.

Commenting on the day, Vincent McBean, Chief Executive of Clapton Football Club, said: “Today was a special day for many reasons. Firstly, we were very happy to have received approval from the Essex Senior League and the London Football Association to host the first every Walter Tull Cup, which honours this Clapton Football Club player. Secondly, it was a great way to prepare for the start of the coming season. We have worked very hard during the off season on training and our continuing development of the facilities and today everyone attending was able to see some of the fruits of our labour, both on and off the pitch. As always, the support from many different quarters, has helped us to mark this milestone, with the official opening of the Walter Tull Gates. The Walter Tull Cup will continue be celebrated as an annual event going forward”.