Team Solent wrap up Sydenhams One title with 1-0 win at Ringwood Town

It wasn’t the best of performances from the Southampton Solent University side but, come the final whistle, nobody really cared.

A 22nd-minute goal from new boy Pedro De Carvalho was enough to take them out of reach of chasing Tadley Calleva – and get the celebrations started!

With several students still away for Easter, manager James Taylor knew his squad would not be at their strongest – hence the signing of match-winner De Carvalho, who made 13 appearances for Romsey Town earlier this season.

His big moment came when he knocked the ball home at the far post after good work from skipper Jesse Lassen.

“It wasn’t the greatest of games, but the result was all that mattered,” smiled Taylor, who was himself pressed into action.

“We had seven players out, but we still had people like Jesse, Sam Byles, Pip Nolan and Matt Burt playing.

“It’s been a great season for us.

“We lost our first three games and to turn it round and win the league is an amazing achievement. It’s been a special effort by these lads.

“We’ve played some amazing football at times and learned to grind out results in some of the tougher games.

“I expect the lads will all go out on the town celebrating now, but I won’t – I’ve got to drive them home in the minibus!”

Solent have two games left this term. They complete their league campaign at Laverstock & Ford on April 25 before facing Hamble Club in the Southampton Senior Cup final at St Mary’s four days later.

While the Students can look forward to top-flight football next term, the signs look ominous for Fareham Town.

Matt Parr’s men remain bottom of the Premier pile after losing 2-1 to local rivals AFC Portchester.

Bradey Norton brought the Creeksiders back from behind, but goals by Luke Sweeney and Nicholai Littleton lifted the Royals into third.

Meanwhile, Blackfield & Langley clawed back a 2-0 interval deficit to win 3-2 at Folland Sports, courtesy of Jake Rowley and two Dan Cann penalties.