Lavvy secure spot in Wessex Premier League Playoffs in record breaking season

Liam McConnell has guided his Laverstock and Ford side to the Wessex Premier League playoffs for the first time in the club's history.

In a record-breaking season, the club will finish in the highest league position whilst competing at step 5 of the non-league pyramid, and now have an opportunity to win promotion via the play-offs. 

Teams finishing between second and fifth contest the playoffs, and Laverstock, who currently sit fourth in the table, cannot now be caught by the chasing pack after an excellent run of form. 

The Bulldogs have picked up five wins from their last six matches, with their most recent victory coming last night. The 3-2 victory over Petersfield Town gave them enough points to guarantee a place in the play-offs. 

McConnell's side have their final league game of the season on Saturday (18th April). They make the short trip to face Downton, with the kick-off at 3 pm. 

In addition to their league campaign, Laverstock have also reached the final of the Wiltshire Premier Shield cup competition. They will travel to Melksham to face Westbury United on Tuesday, 29th April. 

Liam McConnell, Laverstock and Ford FC manager, said, "It’s been a fantastic season so far. 

"We set an objective to reach the playoffs and to get to a cup final. So accomplishing something we all set out as a collective to do feels so satisfying. And let’s not forget that 2nd qualifying FA Cup classic at the Ray Mac in September.

"However, having said that. Why stop here? We’ve taken the pressure off ourselves by grafting & earning these plaudits. But the reality is, we’re two games from Southern League football. 

Laverstock is a club that doesn't have the financial firepower that other clubs competing at step 5 have; for Liam, that makes the achievements more special. He continued, "For a village club like ours, which is run by volunteers on a shoestring budget, just goes to show what is achievable when you blend commitment, good people, hard work & a team spirit bigger than any I’ve ever seen before. 

"This has been years in the making. 

"I’m personally very proud to lead the group, but so many good people play their part to make it all come together. 

"The glass ceiling keeps getting smashed. Whatever happens from here on in, we can be immensely proud of the history we have created at this special little Club."

In other local football news, Salisbury will once again compete in the National League South next season. Their league status was confirmed as AFC Totton beat Bath City yesterday evening, meaning that Salisbury can not be caught by any side in the relegation places. 

The Whites have two games remaining this season and will be hoping to move up the table to beat last season's finishing position of 20th. 

This weekend they face Horsham at the Ray Mac, kick off is at 3 pm on Saturday, 18th April.