Bearsted Hornets dramatically clinch Under-12 Maidstone Youth League Division 1 title with comeback 5-3 away win over Sittingbourne Youth Black.

Bearsted Hornets dramatically clinched the Under-12 Maidstone Youth League Division 1 title away to Sittingbourne Youth Black.

Needing victory, the Hornets found themselves staring adversity in the face, 3-1 down early in the second period, despite taking a first-half lead.

But in a season defined by resilience, character and togetherness, the outstanding squad refused to let the title slip away.

Bearsted stormed back in sensational style, scoring four times to complete a remarkable 5-3 win to seal the Division 1 crown, with captain Charlie Cork scoring four of their five goals.

Joseph Taylor was on the scoresheet, as well.

Coach Steve Smith said: “I’m absolutely thrilled with the way this group has performed.

“They’ve shown the perfect blend of grit, resilience and flair - and they’ve been incredibly tough to beat.

“Of course, picking up another win earlier in the campaign might have saved the parents and supporters a few stressful moments along the way, but then we wouldn’t have had such a dramatic and thrilling finale!

“In the end, the character they showed when it mattered most says everything about this team.”

The final-day triumph capped a fantastic campaign, which saw Bearsted finish above some of the league’s strongest sides, including two Maidstone United teams, Hollands & Blair and Tonbridge.

Team sponsors Toolroom and The Absolute Financial Group were thanked for their continued support throughout a memorable championship-winning year.