Weston-super-Mare’s quest for promotion from the National League South came to a disappointing end with a 2-0 defeat to Hornchurch in the play-off semi-final on Saturday, reports Keith Watson.
After a tense quarter-final win on penalties against Hemel Hempstead, the Seagulls faced a tough challenge at Hornchurch’s ground in east London. The hosts dominated the first half, creating several chances, but Weston’s goalkeeper Max Harris stood firm, keeping the scoreline goalless at halftime.
The deadlock was broken six minutes into the second half when veteran midfielder Josh Rees cleverly found space and fired home the opener. Harris managed to deny Rees on a subsequent opportunity, but Hornchurch doubled their lead ten minutes later. This time, Henry Sandat converted a precise assist from Angelo Balanta, extending the home side’s advantage.
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Weston’s Scot Bennett, Will Dawes, and Louis Britton pushed hard to turn the game around, but Hornchurch’s defense held strong, sealing their win and advancing to the National League final. Hornchurch will now face Torquay for a chance at promotion to the National League next season.
Meanwhile, the National League North final will see South Shields take on Kidderminster in their pursuit of promotion.