Battle through to national final

The Baptists booked their place in the National Christian Trophy decider - which is likely to be played at a Football League ground on a date to be announced - with a 2-1 victory away to Christchurch Bromley on Saturday.

ADA East Sussex Football League Division Two side Battle took the lead through Jamie Crouch, but were then pegged back by a Bromley equaliser. After numerous second half chances were spurned, it looked like extra-time was looming until Ollie Norris grabbed an 88th minute winner.

A league spokesman said: “To get to the final is a fantastic achievement for Battle Baptists, who have not only had to undertake a good deal of travelling, but have also come up against some very good sides as they have manoeuvred themselves through each round. It is to their credit that some of their best performances of the season have been saved for this competition and their success is well merited.”

The National Christian Trophy is a competition for intermediate and junior church-based sides. A record 59 teams entered this season and Battle’s opponents in the final will be Focus Quest or St Cuthberts, both of whom are based in Liverpool.

For a full report, pictures and reaction, see this Friday’s Battle Observer.