SLEAFORD TOWN revelled in being party-poopers at Daventry Town last weekend, revealed manager Brian Rowland.

The hosts were 2-0 up at the break and all prepared to clinch the United Counties League Premier Division title, only for Sleaford to hit back in the second half with three goals, to win the game.

Sleaford's victory denied Daventry the championship and shocked the leaders who had to cancel the scheduled after-match presentation in front of league officials, who had brought the trophy and expectant friends and family.

Sleaford entertain Long Buckby at Eslaforde Park tomorrow (3pm), in their final home game of the season, buoyed by the morale-boosting events of last weekend.

"Daventry were gob-smacked," recalled Rowland.

"We were 2-0 down and the Daventry officials asked us if we could keep our players out on the pitch for the after-match presentation and I replied, 'we haven't lost yet'!

"It was one of the best results we have had this season, along with the win against Stamford and the FA Vase run.

"It just proved what can be done if you don't throw the towel in.

"The players performed very well and Andrew Scott (pictured) was outstanding in goal."

The result was made all the more satisfying for Rowland who was without senior players Kris Jones (suspension), Matt Hodgkins and Martin Wormall for the visit.

Top scorer Miles Hunter was also missing meaning Rowland had to field two substitutes, aged 16 and 17, in the shape of Tom Vertigan and Charlie Ward – Rowland's grandson and the third player from the Ward family, following dad Paul and brother Tom to play for Town.

"It was a bit of a fairy-story really," said Rowland.

"The youngsters did well, but I would like to say Charlie was in there on merit."

The youngsters will provide Rowland with options for next season, but the Town boss admits he will have a huge task on his hands to go all the way and win the championship.

"To win the league you need an experienced side and players who know what they are doing," said Rowland.

"We have got the likes of Gary Walters and Paul Ward but you need a team of them.

"It's all about finances though.

"Daventry will go up this season and St.Neots, in second, will throw a lot of money at it next season.

"You can predict who is going to finish in the top positions and they are the teams with the most money, with chairmen who have big fat cheque-books.

"But we are gradually creeping up on those teams and hopefully we can finish higher than last season's 10th position, this season."