It was a day to remember for Marlow FC as they secured the Isthmian League South Central play-off final.

The Blues, who are managed by Mark Bartley, defeated Leatherhead 3-1 at Oak Tree Road in front 1,589 people – one of the largest crowds in the club’s recent history.

After a goalless first 45 minutes, strikes from Jordi Ndozid, Louis Rogers, and Dawid Rogalski in a 10-minute second-half spell from corners sent the Marlow fans wild.

The opponents did respond with a consolation in the dying embers, but the day belonged to the South Buckinghamshire team.

The result means they will play in Step 3 of the Non League pyramid, just three divisions away from the EFL.

Boss Bartley said: “What I know is that clubs, teams, and squads don't get promoted, families do.

“What we have created at Marlow is a huge family.

“From the volunteers, to the board, the sponsors, the players, my management team, and, of course, our loyal supporters.

“Sunday was a great day, but we have the final next week to properly bring the curtain down on our season. A huge thank you to everyone who backed us this year.

“Those that didn't and tried to put obstacles in our way, thanks for providing the rocket fuel we needed to be successful.”

Marlow hope that the triumph on May 5 will be coupled with another cup, as they take on Reading in the Berks & Bucks final on May 15.

The Blues are the third most successful team in the competition with 13 triumphs, but their last victory in the final two came in 1994.

For the Royals, they have the cup on four occasions - the most recent being only two years ago when they beat Ascot United 4-0 in the 2022 final.

Pics: Mubarak Bashir.