HORNCHURCH have extra incentive to win this weekend – despite already having been crowned Isthmian League Premier Division champions.
The Urchins host Kingstonian at Bridge Avenue on Saturday in the last match of their centenary season with an unassailable 19-point lead over the rest of the league.
However, striker Lewis Manor insists Hornchurch will be desperate to add to their already impressive points tally in order to enjoy more memorable celebrations.
“Even though we are champions we’ve all set ourselves a target of 100 points,” said Manor.
“We’re on 97 at the moment and the chairman and board have said if we get 100 points they will be putting some money towards our celebrations out in Marbella.”
Hornchurch will therefore be eager to triumph again on Saturday as they look to build on last Saturday’s late 1-0 win at Potters Bar Town.
Manor scored the only goal of the game in stoppage time to secure the Urchins’ 30th league win of the campaign.
And he was delighted to see the ball hit the back of the net late on.
“It’s always pleasing to score another late goal,” said Manor.
“It’s not only a brilliant football team, but it’s a fantastic group of characters that I’m privileged to have joined and been a part of.
“It’s been brilliant and it was great to get another win.”
That team spirit has played a large part in Hornchurch’s memorable season.
And Daryl McMahon’s side have done all they can to play with the same level of intensity – even after being assured of a first-place finish.
“You can always drop off, but you want to look back and say you smashed the league,” said Manor.
“That’s what we have done but we want to get another win at the weekend now.”
Whatever the final scoreline, Hornchurch will be presented with the league trophy after the final whistle.
And Manor cannot wait to get the celebrations underway on what promises to be a memorable day for everyone connected with the club.
“Everyone is buzzing about Saturday,” said Manor.
“My fiancée is also coming, so that will be nice to see her and create a memory to look back on.”
Hornchurch will also be strong favourites to triumph this weekend as already relegated Kingstonian sit rock bottom of the table with just 21 points from their 41 games this season.
Kingstonian have also suffered seven defeats in succession and have conceded 26 goals in those losses.
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