BROMSGROVE Sporting will be playing in the fourth tier of non-league football next season after they were crowned Midland League champions at the weekend.

The title was secured after the Rouslers reeled off a 3-1 win at Loughborough University, while closest rivals Highgate United slipped up with a 3-0 defeat against Worcester City.

Manager Brendan Kelly couldn't hide his delight after taking charge following Paul Smith's sudden decision to depart well into the season.

Kelly said: "I couldn't have asked anymore of the players, their reaction has been top class."

Ironically Kelly's reign in charge of the Rouslers commenced with a crushing 4-0 home defeat by fellow title challengers Coleshill Town.

But since that setback, Sporting haven't looked back and Kelly revealed: "If I'm honest, the Coleshill game probably came around too quickly. But following that game, I challenged the players to go for the rest of the season unbeaten.

"We've still got two games left despite having the title in the bag, but the players can't switch off yet.

"I've never felt any pressure since taking over the job even though the club was in a bit of turmoil at the time as Paul Smith left so suddenly. I was under no illusions that it could be a difficult job.

"What has really helped is the support. The crowds have been fantastic and with us all season. They've been our twelfth man.

"They were out in force again at Loughborough and packed both ends of the ground. It was a crazy atmosphere with them all singing and coming onto the pitch at the end of the game.

"We all stayed behind afterwards and it was a lovely occasion.

"The supporters have been there for us in all sorts of weather and they've stuck with us, even after Paul Smith left the club."

Kelly confirmed he would be in charge of Bromsgrove Sporting next season.

He added: "The job is mine, there was no end date when I took charge. I've already have the full backing of the board.

"I know where I need to strengthen and I'll be looking to bring in five or six players during the summer. I've been talking to players for the past couple of weeks in regards to next season."

Already there promises to be quite a party for Sporting's final game of the season on Saturday at home to South Normanton.

Kelly is keen to see the crowd size of 1,427 against Worcester City beaten and promised: "All the players will be staying behind at the club afterwards as a thank-you to the supporters.

"There's already talk of fancy dress and a bit of a night out afterwards.

"I would like to put on record my thanks to assistant Andy Mason, coach Kevin Barry, physio Emma Walker and secretary David Stephens.

"Equally I want to thank the players for their hard work, application and the trust they have put in me."

  • FORMER Bromsgrove Sporting boss Paul Smith has been quick to congratulate the club on their  Midland League triumph this week.

Smith, who left the club with 14 league games remaining said: "I'm over the moon for the players and the supporters. To achieve back-to-back promotions ids fantastic and fully deserved.

 "The club's fan base has continued to grow over the past two to three years and I see no reason why it shouldn't continue to grow both on and off the field."