BOSS Ollie Cherrett was delighted to silence his “doubters” after masterminding Christchurch’s return to Sydenhams Wessex Premier.

Priory booked their place back in the top flight with a dramatic 3-2 victory over East Cowes Vics at Hurn Bridge on Saturday.

Max Wilcock had put the hosts ahead after his strike found the top corner, only for Vics duo Jordan Browne and Jimmi Burton to fire them in front before the interval.

But striker Scott Joyce popped up with the leveller and the goal which earned Priory promotion came from the penalty spot.

Youngster James King stepped up to despatch from 12 yards and ensured Christchurch were back after a three-year absence.

Cherrett stepped into the Hurn Bridge hot-seat in September 2015 having resigned as boss of Merley Cobham Sports.

Describing his emotions after securing promotion, he told the Daily Echo: “It was overwhelming.

"Myself and Chris (Hart, assistant) gave each other a big hug and breathed a big sigh of relief. We have worked very hard and the players have been outstanding all season.

“There were a lot of people out there who were doubters, or haters, but we have stuck to our guns and worked the way we wanted to work.

“This season was make-or-break for us really. Myself and Chris put ourselves under that pressure to get promoted and, if it hadn’t happened, you would start questioning yourselves.

“We knew it wouldn’t be a quick fix and we were disappointed after last season but that disappointment drove us on.

“As a club, we are going in the right direction and can now start planning for next season.”

Christchurch host US Portsmouth tomorrow (7.45pm) knowing victories in their final three games would secure the title.

The Hurn Bridge boss added: “The lads are confident and they want to go that extra step to finish on a real high.

“To have the pressure off, if you like, having been promoted means we can really enjoy it now. I hope our performances show that.

“We have an opportunity now to make more history. I was fortunate to win the Southern League with Dorchester and those days you look back on fondly.”