It was an early start for the M3s as the team stepped onto the pitch, knowing that every pass, every tackle, and every goal could be the difference between being crown champions and promotion glory, or have to wait. The stakes couldn’t have been higher — win, and we’d win the league title but anything else would likely mean that it would take it to Old Loughts for the last game of the season, with Crostyx and Rochford still on our tails.

From the first whistle, nerves were evident. Our play was cautious, perhaps too cautious, as both sides probed for openings. Midway through the first half, a slick short corner routine resulted on a shot from David at the top of the D, which just about had enough on it and the defender could not keep it out (or an own goal, who knows!). We hoped that this would settle the nerves, but our normally crisp play did not materialise, and the simple passes were going astray, with frustration and groans from the team. Upminster were having their chances and causing havoc down their wings with the skilled youngsters they had. One such opportunity, when the ball was given away cheaply fell to one of the tricky opponents, who despite the best efforts of the defence and Army, nestled the ball into the bottom corner with a good back stick finish. The silence from our usually vocal supporters said it all — this wasn’t in the script. The first half finished with the score 1-1.

Throughout the season we had always found a way to grind out results against tricky opponents and whilst it was fair to say that although our play wasn’t at our high standards, the pressure was all one way in the second half but Upminster stood firm and their goalkeeper repelled everything thrown at him. Frustration did grow during the latter stages, and this resulted in green cards for Bert, Adam and Riz and although we chased the winner with everything we had, the final whistle blew at 1–1 — a result that felt like a missed opportunity.

Despite the point being enough to secure promotion, it was a little downbeat afterwards and think this was probably because everyone was slightly disappointed with our performance and that really, we wanted to beat Upminster. This would secure winning the league on our terms at home and not rely on other results or taking to Old Loughts the following week, to get the final point we needed.

Then came the twist. Most of the team had left the club by late afternoon, except for Messrs S Jackson, M Armitage & D Stoner who were determined to enjoy the last home game!! We had already seen that Rochford had lost at home, but because of the point we had already gained they could not mathematically catch us anyway. It was just Crostyx who were not playing until 2pm and really, we all felt they would win that game. News filtered through from Crostyx (OK, frantically refreshing of results page!!), the mood shifted from disappointment to disbelief, and finally to pure elation. Our rivals had slipped up, losing to 6-1 at home against Chelmsford (now my favourite team!). Against all odds, the point we’d earned was enough — we were not only promoted but league CHAMPIONS!!

It wasn’t the fairytale finish we’d imagined, but perhaps it was even sweeter this way: a reminder that titles are won over a season, not in a single game. The celebrations that followed (well for the three of us!) were a mix of relief, joy, and pride — the perfect ending to a campaign that tested every ounce of our resilience.

In closing this match report, whilst not the most memorable game during our season, there have been more high points than a few low points but the main reason we have been successful has been down to the amazing positive team spirit, excellent hockey, never say die attitude and enjoying the game of hockey.

Really proud to have led this team this year, appreciate everyone’s efforts (the whole squad) and what they have given to the team every single week. Thank you also to the support we have been given from the supporters both home and away this season.

We have done it lads we are promoted and LEAGUE CHAMPIONS, let’s be proud of this achievement, enjoy the celebrations together as we go to Old Loughts next week for our final game and then hopefully as many as possible for the Back to the Bridge and Club Supper. Rumours that the Defence are in charge of attacking short corners at Old Loughts and Liam to bring out his drag flick!!

MOM: Pete Cossey

Goals: David Jackson (or own goal!!)