Republic of Flixton wrapped up the MJSL crown – but the new league champions won’t be around to defend their title next season after announcing a move into the world of non-Jewish football.
The club, which will compete alongside South Manchester Sports 1st in the Premier Division of the Manchester Accountants League, will instead enter a reserve side into the MJSL.
Republic has enjoyed a sensational season; winning the treble and celebrating in style following Tuesday’s 10-0 win over Oakhill Lions.
Jon Berens (3), Dan Garman (2), Jacob Shapiro (2), Adam Tauber, Saul Shapiro and Adam Wilson were the scorers against Oakhill, a victory that followed Sunday's 6-0 success over FC Cosmos.
Jonny Lewis was named as MJSL Player of the Year and Rob Jacobs took home the golden boot as Republic bowed out at the top.
Joint-manager Stuart Delmonte revealed that the club will simply be known as ‘Flixton’ next season, while Flixton reserves will compete in the MJSL.
“When Tony Rosenberg and I took over last summer, we wanted to win something, but I don’t think we’d envisaged this success,” said Delmonte.
“We’re now going to compete in non-Jewish football and hopefully we can continue to be successful and attract a few more players.
“We’ve got a great set of lads and we feel we can compete at a higher level, but we’re still planning to enter the Peter Morrison Trophy, while the reserves will play in the MJSL."
Co-manager Tony Rosenberg said: "We’ll have a new pitch for next season at the Accounts Direct Stadium and the facilities are fantastic.
“Hopefully we can push on and continue our success.”
Photos to follow ...