They gained all three in a game that was easy on the eye and historic in the sense that Whites legend Brendan McDaid was playing his last home game for a club the loves.

After 665 appearances and over a thousand in total at this level, Brendan has decided to hang up his boots.

What a great achievement by a man whose modesty and manners had made him respected by team mates and opponents over the years.

As a tribute to the man, the Gaffer made Brendan skipper for the day.

The way the game started you would have thought that it was the Whites and not Mickleover heading for the title.

After early pressure Scott Ruthven found himself in space and the striker headed home his 19th league goal of the season.

Mickleover were then awarded a penalty after man of the moment Brendan McDaid was deemed to have brought down an opponent. Winger Andy Dales duly dispatched the penalty to equalise.

The visitors increased their lead just before half time when Gary Ricketts darted to the right side of the penalty area, lost his marker and slotted home a fine strike which keeper Ryan Musslewhite could only admire.

The second half saw action at both ends. The Mickleover defence stood firm against the attacking threat of Ruthven and Hutchinson but they couldn't stop that man Brendan McDad firing home to equalise after a set piece.

It was fitting the great man should score in his final game.

However Jacob Hazel spoiled the party when his 25 yard left foot volley stunned the Ashby Avenue faithful to give his side the lead and confirmed their position as league champions.

Well done Mickleover in becoming worthy title holders. I enjoyed the fact that all the Whites supporters waited for Mickleover to head towards the changing rooms where they were given a tremendous reception from the home fans.

Where did that season go?

Rather than answer that particular question this week I will look back on this campaign in next week's report.

Cheers

Pete Hayward