The 2s duly sealed the Div4NW title with a victory that unfortunately sealed the 3s fate and a return to Div 5.

Both teams had big squads, the 2s adding veteran Neil Manley and youngster Jack York, which given the lovely spring weather was a bit of a bonus.
The 2nds started like they mean business, picking up a loose clearance in the second minute the ball was worked to livewire Samuel Tattersall who coolly lifted the ball over Mike Tanser in the 3s goal for his 16th of the season. On nine minutes a short corner was fired in by Jamie Smith. The 2s were controlling the play and created a couple of other good chances but went further ahead when Jared Brooks got the finest of fine edges to deflect the ball into the corner.
The second half saw the 3s press the 2s back but struggle to create any clear chances until midway through the half. The 2s had not conceded a penalty stroke all season then, like buses, two came along in two minutes. The first Mike L fired wide and the second Lee hit the post. From then on the game fizzled out with neither team looking like scoring.
Young Yorkie was player of the match and displayed some great touches and passes that clearly show that he’s one for the future.

Overall, an excellent season after a sloppy start to the campaign with only 10 points from the first 7 games. Eleven wins in the next twelve games including excellent wins against Camb Uni 4s and Camb City 5s was enough to see Kettering crowned champions and back to Div3NW where we were unlucky to be relegated from last year due to restructuring the leagues. Eight clean sheets and only conceding 22 goals has provided a solid springboard to put a long winning streak together. Credit where it’s due and Samuel Tattersall has been particularly important in our resurgence as his goals and all round play have added a new dimension to the side. We also did our bit for the first team with Ellis and Harry both playing the second half of the season for the 1s.

Time to take stock and start preparing for next year where we know we will be playing some strong teams and will need to be at our best every week.