Takeley promoted to step four after beating Woodford Town in Essex Senior League play-off final

Takeley beat Woodford Town 2-0 in the Essex Senior League, Premier Division promotion play-off final to secure step four football for the first time on Saturday (May 3).

John Clarke wrapped up the win seven minutes from time by adding to a first-half own goal as they triumphed on home soil in front of a record attendance of 1,003.

The players, their families, the coaching team, supporters and club officials poured onto the Full Vision Stadium pitch to celebrate at the final whistle, with the side going the whole league season unbeaten at home. They also ended the season with 12 straight wins.

Takeley can now look forward to life at the level above, most likely in the Pitching In Isthmian League, North Division.

It was a proud day for joint-managers Alex Martin and Kieran Amos, with the pair having been appointed at the start of the campaign after the team finished 15th in 2023-24.

Martin, who also celebrated his birthday the previous day, and his family’s connection with the club goes back four generations.

“It feels like a dream. It was my birthday yesterday and I just turned up today and knew we were going to win, I don’t know why,” said Martin.

“It’s a strange feeling, but it’s massive for the club. Four generations of my family have been playing for Takeley and it means so much.”

Takeley, who finished second in the league, two points behind champions Stanway Rovers, took the lead 12 minutes before half time when Lewis Wicker’s corner was flicked on by Clarke and the ball ended up in the net via a Woodford defender.

And they clinched the victory over Woodford, who had finished seven points behind them in third, in the 83rd minute as Jordan Wescott headed down Charlie Wardle’s free kick and Clarke smashed the ball home.

Amos and Martin were team-mates during their playing days, with Martin being captain when Amos began playing at the age of 16.

“It’s what we’ve dreamed of and what we’ve worked for since day one,” said Amos.

“We knew if we could get together the boys we wanted that this was a real possibility. Fair play to the boys in there, they’ve been immense.

“We’ve been really consistent this year and I’m so proud of the players. They’ve earned everything they’ve got this year.”

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