Brixham secure sensational Southern League promotion

Two second-half goals from James Moxon, including a dramatic late winner, has secured Brixham AFC an incredible promotion to the Southern League.

The club formed just 13 years ago with the merger of Brixham United and Brixham Villa, plying their early trade in the lower echelons of the South Devon League.

Gradually, the Wall Park club has grown in stature, backed by a dedicated group of volunteers helping to run the club, a passionate fanbase, dedicated and determined players, and a fantastic management team.

Led by Jason Couch and Tim Porter, the Fishermen rose to the Western League after winning the Peninsula League East just two years ago. After a solid first season at this new level, Brixham have been a revelation over the past nine months.

One non-league pundit even touted the Fishermen as relegation fodder….don’t give up the day job mate!

After a steady but unspectacular start to the campaign, Brixham enjoyed a brilliant autumn to top the division. There was a blip in winter, opening the door for Portishead Town to eventually run away with the title.

Brixham soon rediscovered their mojo, finishing third and comfortably in the play-off positions. Barnstaple Town were despatched in the semi-final, setting up the showpiece promotion match at Clevedon.

The home side entered the game as favourites and, after a tight opening half-hour, Clevedon grabbed the lead with a near-post flick from Sam Beresford. Brixham also needed some sharp goalkeeping from Marko Radovanovic to stay just a goal behind.

Step forward attacking powerhouse Moxon, who levelled with a headed finish midway through the second period. Both teams surged forward in search of the winner and Moxon was the man to deliver, looping a header beyond the desperate Clevedon defence to seal a remarkable victory.

What a win, and what a fine footballing story!