Champions are going up

A comprehensive 171-run beating of rivals Retford on Saturday handed Darren Spooner’s men the title, sparking wild celebrations.

The delighted skipper told the Guardian: “It was a brilliant day, it’s hard to put into words.”

“Halfway through the game we knew we were going to win, but when it happened and it sank in, it was amazing.”

“The celebrations were a bit crazy, the scenes on the pitch were great, and some champagne was popped.”

“There will be more celebrating this week.”

The 20-point victory meant it will be impossible for Ordsall Bridon to be caught, with one game left in the season.

So they can now turn their attention to life in the top flight.

Spooner said: “We’ll be looking at what we need to go up there and challenge to stay up there in the Notts Premier.”

Club chairman Gareth Jones added: They did it in emphatic style, it’s fantastic.”

“We’ve rebuilt, businessman Craig Buckingham has really helped us, and the lads want to test themselves at the best possible level.”

Defeat on Saturday, meanwhile, has left Retford facing life in Division One, as they remain rooted to the bottom of the Championship.