Crawley Town vs Oldham Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Crawley Town and Oldham Share Spoils in Thrilling 2-2 Draw

Crawley Town's recent struggles continued as they fought back to earn a draw against Oldham Athletic, showcasing resilience but also highlighting ongoing defensive frailties. The match at Broadfield Stadium saw Crawley, currently sitting in 21st place with 17 points, display a fighting spirit that has been absent in recent weeks. Despite the draw, Crawley remains in the relegation zone, emphasizing the need for consistent performances to climb the table.

Oldham Athletic, positioned 17th with 23 points, entered this fixture looking to break a streak of disappointing results. Their recent form had been shaky, with three losses in their last five matches. The draw against Crawley, while not ideal, offered a glimmer of hope as they managed to score twice after struggling to find the net in previous outings. This match could serve as a turning point for Oldham, who need to build on this performance to avoid slipping further down the standings.

Crawley Town's attacking play was marked by a notable improvement in their shot conversion rate compared to previous matches. They registered four shots on target, a significant uptick from their recent average of just two goals across their last five games. Ryan Loft, who opened the scoring early in the match, continues to be a key figure for Crawley, demonstrating his ability to find the net when it matters most. His performance today reinforces his status as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise challenging season for Crawley.

Oldham's response was immediate and effective, with Michael Mellon equalizing shortly after halftime. This goal marked a crucial moment for Oldham, as they had struggled to convert chances in their last few matches. Mellon's ability to capitalize on defensive lapses from Crawley highlights the importance of maintaining concentration throughout the game. Following Mellon's goal, Jack Stevens put Oldham ahead, showcasing their attacking potential and ability to exploit weaknesses in Crawley's defense.

Crawley's defensive issues were once again laid bare as they conceded two goals after leading early on. Their backline has been inconsistent throughout the season, often failing to maintain shape and allowing opponents to exploit gaps. The fact that Crawley has conceded 12 goals in their last five matches underscores the urgency for defensive reinforcements or tactical adjustments. The late equalizer from Kabongo Tshimanga provided a much-needed boost for Crawley, but it also served as a reminder that defensive solidity must be prioritized if they are to escape the relegation zone.

Possession statistics favored Crawley, who held 58% of the ball during the match. This possession dominance is indicative of their intent to control the game and create opportunities. However, translating possession into clear-cut chances remains a challenge. Despite having more of the ball, Crawley managed only four shots on target, reflecting a lack of clinical finishing that has plagued them all season. Their inability to convert possession into goals is a critical area for improvement moving forward.

Oldham's approach was more pragmatic, focusing on counter-attacks and exploiting spaces left by Crawley's attacking intent. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack was evident, particularly with players like Mellon and Stevens leading the charge. Oldham's strategy paid off as they capitalized on defensive errors from Crawley, showcasing their potential when given space to operate.

The match statistics reveal contrasting narratives for both teams. Crawley's pass accuracy of 64% indicates a level of control in midfield, yet their failure to convert this into meaningful chances raises questions about their attacking efficiency. Oldham's 56% pass accuracy reflects their more direct style of play, which may not always be pretty but can yield results when executed effectively.

Looking ahead, Crawley Town faces a crucial match against Swindon Town on December 20. They must build on this draw and address their defensive vulnerabilities if they hope to secure vital points in their fight against relegation. The upcoming fixture will test their resolve and ability to maintain momentum after this hard-fought draw.

Oldham will also look to capitalize on this result as they prepare to face Tranmere on the same day. Building on today's performance could provide them with the confidence needed to push further up the table. With players like Mellon and Stevens finding form, Oldham has the potential to turn their season around if they can maintain consistency.

This match encapsulated the ongoing struggles and potential for both teams. For Crawley Town, it was a reminder that resilience can yield results even amidst adversity. For Oldham Athletic, it was an opportunity to rediscover their attacking prowess and build momentum moving forward. As both teams navigate the challenges of League Two, today's draw serves as a pivotal moment in their respective campaigns.