Maidstone United and Tonbridge Angels women’s teams are both going up as extra promotion spot becomes available

Two women’s teams who were fighting for one promotion spot are both on their way up.

Maidstone United overhauled long-time leaders Tonbridge Angels to win the South East Counties Premier Division title, ending the campaign as unbeaten league champions.

The Stones’ application for promotion has been approved and they will play in the London & South East Regional League Division 1 North next season.

But runners-up Tonbridge, whose only two defeats came against Maidstone, have also been rewarded for an excellent campaign and have secured a place in Division 1 South following a successful application.

Maidstone’s title success capped a brilliant season in which they reached the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup and won the Kent Women’s Plate under player-boss Tori Campbell and head coach Nathan Baker.

They also reached the League Cup final, beaten by an injury-time Cray Wanderers goal in a 3-2 defeat.

Maidstone are delighted to be going up to Tier 6.

“The promotion is a significant milestone for the women’s section and reflects the hard work, commitment and progress shown both on and off the pitch in recent seasons,” said a club statement.

“Everyone at Maidstone United would like to thank the players, coaching staff, volunteers, supporters and sponsors who have helped make this achievement possible.”

Tonbridge, whose women’s section was formed just three years ago, also enjoyed a season to remember.

As well as finishing runners-up, Joe Rowe’s side reached two cup semi-finals and the second qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Boss Rowe told the Angels website: “To receive confirmation of promotion is a fantastic moment for everyone involved with the club.

“The players have worked incredibly hard over the course of the