The sun was out and the lads were nervous in the changing room before kick-off — but they had no reason to be.

On Sunday 11th May 2025, under perfect blue skies and in front of a buzzing crowd at The Crest Stadium, Tankerton Royals etched their name into local football history with a brilliant 4-2 win over Woodman’s Hall to become Les Barleycorn Cup champions.

For a team quickly put together less than a year ago, it was a momentous achievement — made even sweeter by the calibre of their opposition. Woodman’s Hall, crowned league winners earlier in the season, had already beaten the Royals twice and came into the final full of confidence. Known for their aggressive style and strength from set pieces, they were expected by many to complete the double.

But Tankerton had other ideas.

Goals from Daniel Leigh, Jojo Bidemi (2), and Morgan Maxfield sealed a memorable victory, and while the scoreboard read 4-2, it could easily have been more. The Royals created a string of chances and looked electric going forward, slicing through Woodman’s backline time and again.

The victory wasn’t by chance — it was the result of preparation and belief. Six weeks prior to the final, manager James Hunt made the decision to move training to Herne Bay’s ground to help the team adapt to a bigger pitch and hone their ability to play out from the back. The plan worked to perfection.

We knew they’d come out and press us hard, so we worked on staying calm, playing through the lines, and using the space in behind, everyone to a man was immense.

Tankerton’s fluid passing and movement forced Woodman’s Hall out of their comfort zone, and their usually rigid press began to unravel — leaving space for the Royals' attackers to exploit. Despite Woodman’s physical presence and aerial threat, Tankerton matched them in effort and outplayed them in execution.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, the manager couldn’t hide his pride.

Tankerton Royals will savour this special moment a statement performance, and a bright future ahead.

Match day Squad – Les Barleycorn Cup Final, 11th May 2025

1.⁠ ⁠Lee Mills (GK)
4.⁠ ⁠William Watts
5.⁠ ⁠Lewis Loxston
6.⁠ ⁠Riley Soto-Tuite
7.⁠ ⁠Morgan Maxfield
8.⁠ ⁠Lewis Heard (C)
9.⁠ ⁠Jojo Bidemi
10.⁠ ⁠Brandon Munday
11.⁠ ⁠Daniel Leigh
12.⁠ ⁠Jamie Boyle
13.⁠ ⁠Roberts Ayodeji
14.⁠ ⁠Olly Cooper
15.⁠ ⁠Nick Glenday
16.⁠ ⁠Josh Kelman
17.⁠ ⁠Daniel Akpoveta
19.⁠ ⁠Jack Phelps