Holbeach United Reserves are celebrating promotion to the ChromaSport Peterborough League… despite losing 2-1 at Thorney on the final day of the Division One season.
Needing a point to clinch second place on Saturday, the Tigers found themselves 2-0 down at the home of the champions before striker Tom Waumsley pulled one back in the second half.
It mattered little, though, with third place also good enough to secure promotion – something only a few people at Carter’s Park knew about.
Keeper Adam Kirk said: “A few of us knew, but we didn’t want to let it slip as the lads would take their foot off the gas.
“It has been a great season for us, especially when you consider that a lot of the team were playing Division Four football last season.
“(Boss) Omar Joof should take massive credit for getting this team promoted. It’s a big deal for Holbeach United.”
Elsewhere, Moulton Harrox finished their Premier Division season with a 2-1 loss at Oakham United. Danny Cairns got their goal.
Crowland Town signed off with a thrilling 3-3 draw at Uppingham Town thanks to strikes from Luke Elsom, Alan Thomas and Simkus Virginijus.
Also in the top flight, Pinchbeck United’s disappointing season concluded with a 9-0 tonking at ICA Sports.