Pic: Kevin Richards
ROYSTON TOWN were confirmed as Southern League Central champions on Tuesday night – without kicking a ball!
Nearest rivals Farnborough travelled to play-off chasing Kempston Rovers knowing they had to win to keep their faint title hopes alive.
However, a goalless draw in Bedfordshire meant Royston were crowned champions after a fantastic season for Steve Castle's men.
The Crows, Spartan South Midlands League champions in 2011-12, had finished second in both of the last two Step 4 campaigns.
They fell in the play-offs to Barton Rovers and then AFC Rushden & Diamonds but there will be no end of season drama this time around with the title in the bag.
Castle's side have won 30 of their 38 league matches, scoring 109 goals along the way, and will be taking their place in the Southern Premier next term.
Boss Castle told the club's website: “No game but exciting times for us tonight, we have done it!
“Courtesy of a 0-0 draw at Kempston against Farnborough we have mathematically achieved our goal and that is automatic promotion from the Southern League Central.
“Happy days! I want to publicly thank all the players that have performed so well for us over the last eight months, they all have been heroes.
“To win the League with four matches still to play is an unbelievable feat. As said, now to refocus on other targets which hopefully will keep us at the levels expected as champions!
“Nice to say “champions” and I would love everyone to enjoy that fact, I know we all quickly look at next season but for now let's revel in our situation as it is and enjoy.”
