Rainhill Town have been crowned champions of Division 2 in the Warrington & District Football League.
It is the first time the club has been promoted in almost a decade.
Town fought off stiff competition from runners-up St Michaels DH Reserve, but prevailed in a close title race.
The league was confirmed after their latest 6-3 win against FC Burtonwood First.
Rainhill have had a stellar season statistically, winning 14 games, drawing two and losing one.
They remained unbeaten at home (W 7, D 1), scoring 38 and conceding 11 goals.
Their away form was just as impressive, winning seven, drawing one and losing one.
Their defence away from home was seemingly the difference, as they conceded just eight goals while on the road.
They ended the season with 44 points, and an identical goal difference of +44.
Town forward Stephen Woods was full of praise for his teammates.
“We set out at the start of the season looking to challenge at the top all season, and that is exactly what we have done.
“The teams we were competing with near the top of the league were tough competition, but I couldn’t be happier to finish on top.”
Woods scored 19 times over the course of the year, and was the team’s second highest goal scorer.
“I was glad to help out my team mates with a few goals but most of the praise has to go to the defenders.
“They managed to keep the team in some really close games, and especially away from home, our defence was very impressive.”
He said the team plan to celebrate and joked that they will have to tread carefully around the boss.
“Yeah, I’m sure there will be a couple of drinks tonight, then maybe some tomorrow!
“But we definitely need to watch our behaviour around the boss, as he is already planning for next season.
“I’m looking forward to a few weeks off, but then we’ll be back to it in pre-season, and tackle a new division.
“Most of the lads here have played in a higher division for Rainhill, but were embracing the challenge.”
(Image credit to ChrisTheDude via Creative Commons License)
