After missing out on one chance to secure the Isthmian League Premier Division title, Hornchurch boss Daryl McMahon was jubilant to see Liam Nash’s injury-time winner against Chatham confirm the club’s promotion to National League South.

Urchins had lost at home to Wingate & Finchley a week earlier, but made no mistake at Bridge Avenue on Saturday.

“We said before the game it just felt like fate today to play Chatham here, who have obviously been chasing us down all season,” said McMahon.

“Today we felt was our day, and all the players who have been injured as well, and all the backroom staff, ownership, board, and the work they’ve put in over the season. To beat second place and win the title with probably the best we’ve played for a few weeks. I thought we were excellent.”

McMahon, who alluded to nerves as the reason his side couldn’t get over the line the previous weekend, spoke of how the players overcame pressure to secure the championship.

“Sometimes it’s hard to get over the line. Today it felt like a bit of a cup final for us, if I’m being honest,” he told the club website.

“Last week probably had a bit of a damp squib to it, and we felt we might have won it on [Easter] Monday as well [Canvey match postponed], but today it felt like 'today’s the day'. I thought the players were outstanding.”

Opening goalscorer Femi Akinwande was also on media duties and filled with elation as fans surrounded him in celebration.

“It’s my first league title! It just feels amazing,” said the Urchins forward, with a fan almost perched on his shoulder.

“The boys dug deep all season and it’s only right that we won it, so it feels great.”

On his 18th goal of the season, which was cancelled out late on before Nash's winner, Akinwande gave a hilarious yet touching response.

“I didn’t know whether to celebrate, I'll be honest! I didn’t even remember where to run. I just ran to my family. It was amazing,” he added.

Having secured the title with five games to play, Urchins have time to celebrate now before beginning preparations for National League South.

The champions welcome Cray Wanderers to Bridge Avenue tonight (Tuesday).