Shanklin were presented with the Isle of Wight Division 1 trophy at Harwoods Garage Wootton by chairperson Jo Harwood on Monday evening (23rd May).
Shanklin won the title by a single point on the final game of the league season by beating Brading Town 1-5 at the Peter Henry Ground.
Earlier in the season, the title had appeared to be destined for last season’s champions, Whitecroft & Barton Sports, who were leading the league by 14 points. However, defeat to Brading Town and then an injury time loss to Shanklin at the County Ground prevented W&B from lifting their 7th successive title.
Shanklin’s title victory was a personal triumph for manager Paul Haward, who has seen his side transformed from ‘nearly men’ to worthy Isle of Wight champions. Last season, the Blues led for much of the league campaign before going down to a 2-4 defeat to W&B at the County Ground. The Seasiders have also reached 2 Hampshire Cup finals, losing 0-4 to Brading Town last year, and being beaten on penalties by Stoneham last month.
The trophy was presented to Shanklin captain Pete Wilson. Joe Rayner collected the runners up medals on behalf of Whitecroft and Barton.
Tonight (Tuesday) Shanklin play Whitecroft & Barton Sports at the Peter Henty Ground, Brading in the final of the Challenge Cup: the last fixture of the Isle of Wight season.
Manager Paul Haward says:
“I’m looking forward to the game. it’s been a very long but successful season for the lads. All I can ask is for 1 last big push from them on Tuesday. If we play well, I believe we will win.”
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Kick off for the Challenge Cup final is at 19:30.
The Isle of Wight Division 2 trophy was collected by much respected Pan manager Steve Case, who has been associated with the Newport club for over half-a-century. Pan have had their most successful season ever, having lifted not only the Division 2 trophy, but also the Hampshire Vase. Division 2 runners up were East Cowes Sports.
The Combination 1 title was presented to Whitecroft & Barton Sports Reserves manager, Kai Barnes. Oakfield were the Combination 1 runners up.
East Cowes Sports Reserves manager Steve Ebbs collected the Combination 2 trophy on behalf of his team. ECS won their league with an impressive 100% record, finishing 15 points ahead of runners up Vectis Reserves.
Representing the Isle of Wight Divisional Football Association at the presentation evening were Chairman Ted Sheath, President Alan Russell, Secretary Ian Smith, and Treasurer John Hopkinson.
The Isle of Wight DFA would like to express their appreciation to Harwoods Garage for their continued sponsorship of Isle of Wight football.
Good old Penistone Pete