I’d just like to start off by saying how immensely proud I am of each and every person at Eccleshill United FC, who have all done their bit in an amazing season.

I did keep on saying that this side could achieve great things, Des (Hamilton) and I knew that the players were on a mission to fulfil their potential.

We started the season with a great pre-season and felt positive going into the league, but we got some results that we hadn’t anticipated, and they were unpleasant surprises. However, we knew the boys would turn a corner and it didn’t take long for that to happen.

From the end of August, Eccleshill went on the best form in the history of the club (I think!), losing only one game in 17 league games, which was an incredible run for any team at this level. We have a strong, but small squad, and continued to hold on to second spot for as long as possible.

We did make a few additions as the season went on, and that proved to be a good decision as we had a lot of injuries towards the tail end of the campaign. Yes, the regular season ended in dramatic fashion, with Yorkshire Amateurs nicking the last automatic promotion spot on the final day- but this showed the character we have in this team.

What would unfold in the play-off final will probably not be experienced by many ever again. However, our results over the season show that we scored a lot of late goals through sheer grit and determination, so I wasn’t too surprised when we won in that manner!

Des and I are completely overjoyed at being promoted, and the promotion is dedicated to everyone who has played a part, helping us develop and grow along the way.

Those lads are warriors on that pitch, and I have to wish Scotty (Manning) a speedy recovery following that horror injury he sustained in the play-off final. Matt Mathers is also on the mend after breaking his cheekbone in the same game, so it’s looking positive at the moment.

Next season can’t come soon enough, and we are all looking forward to entertaining everyone again with some impressive performances from our outstanding team that we are lucky to have.

Keep on supporting us, and keep the faith and I am very sure that this fantastic club will continue to develop both on the pitch and off it!

The gaffer is clearly brimming with pride at his sides fantastic achievement this season, and all the signs are looking extremely positive for The Eagles at the moment.