Reigate Priory claimed a 3-2 win over Buxted at Park Lane to seal a fantastic season by winning the Mid Sussex Championship league title.

The Reigate side knew they would win the title if they defeated Buxted and second-placed Ridgewood lost at home to Ashurst Wood, which they did 3-0.

Despite a slow start by the home side, Harrison Spicer hit the underside of bar after just ten minutes but the ball was adjudged not to have crossed the line by the referee.

However, moments later Buxted took the lead when their winger rounded Laurence Picking in the Priory goal and turned in to the unguarded net.

Early in the second half club top scorer James Long volleyed in from close range from a Joe Elbishlawi cross to equalise.

The returning James Bolton put the home side ahead on the hour mark with a far post finish from a Max Bicknell cross, but Buxted levelled with 20 minutes remaining with a deflected effort from inside the box.

With just five minutes remaining, Priory were awarded a free-kick wide of the penalty box which Josh Wille took, rocketing the ball into the far top corner to put his side 3-2 up before the full-time whistle blew and Reigate Priory were crowned champions.

Manager Dale Wyatt said: “This is a proud day and another chapter in this historical club’s story.

“It’s quite apt that today’s game epitomised the turbulence the club has experienced in the past five years having been relegated from the Surrey Elite, but the incredible team of volunteers here have contributed to producing a first team to be proud of, who have eventually come out on top.

“Scott Johnson in particular joined this team as a quiet 23-year-old, getting beaten comprehensively in the Surrey Elite on a weekly basis, but today he can boast that he has captained this team to glory and I couldn’t be prouder of the determination he’s demonstrated.

“My assistant Arun Field and I will now regroup the lads and have a real crack at the Mowatt Cup this season with the quarter-final this Saturday, before attacking the Mid Sussex Premier League next season.”

*Article courtesy of Surrey Mirror