Having led the way for so long, it would have been easy for Yate Town’s Pitching In Southern League Division One South title bid to fall apart when they lost top spot recently.
But they stepped up to the plate to regain pole position and get the job done on the back of just six defeats from their 42 League games, taking the title with 88 points, six more than their nearest challengers, Evesham United.
“I am extremely proud of everything we have achieved this season,” skipper, Joe Guest, who scored the only goal of the game against Didcot Town on Saturday, told us. “Right from the outset our objective was promotion and thankfully we have been able to achieve it automatically!
“There are five or six local lads in the team, myself included, and I think that makes it extra special. That said, all of the boys have worked unbelievably hard to achieve this. Winning any title takes dedication and a tremendous amount of hard work.
“After coming so close to making the play-offs at the end of last season, we fully expected to be in the top five this time around, but to captain the team to the title means the world to me. I just want to play my part in making the team better; getting the technical players to do what they do best and help the younger lads as and when they need it.
“This League is so competitive. Every team in it poses their own problems; there are a mix of different styles to combat and thankfully we’ve been able to come through this test with flying colours.
“Next season will be tough again, of course, as we step up a level, but we’ll be more than equipped to deal with it. We’re ready to make the step up; there are a lot of lads here who have played at higher levels and with a few additions and some minor tweaks here and there, we’ll be ready to consolidate.
“We’ll look to play the same style that has got us into this position and there is certainly plenty to look forward to and be positive about.”
For manager, Darren Mullings, it was the perfect ending to his first full season at the helm.
“It’s been a long but enjoyable season,” he added. “The lads have been absolutely fantastic since the very first day of pre-season.
“We set ourselves a target back then and we kept it to ourselves for a long time. We started the season extremely well and no-one could really touch us right up until January time, which was pleasing.
“The last few weeks have been challenging as we suffered a bit of a dip in form based on our high standards, but we stuck to our beliefs and showed a tremendous amount of character and belief to get it over the line.
“To clinch the title in front of such a big crowd at home is what it’s all about, this is why we do it. Everyone has played their part and I can’t thank them enough for what they have achieved this season.
“I’ve never seen a group quite like it; they are a pleasure to work with and we’re just like one big family. They have made my first full season in management an absolute delight and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
The Southern League sends its congratulations to everyone involved with the club on their title triumph.
IMAGE: Yate Town FC
Most clubs are looking for volunteers. Find out more on the button below:
www.PitchingInVolunteers.co.ukAll the news and results in one place.
REGISTER