Kevin Phillips reflects on South Shields' promotion

They got the job done with a 1-0 win over Whitby Town on Monday.

It is the first time the club have played in the sixth tier since the reformation of the club back in 1974.

Speaking post-match, Phillips found it difficult to put their achievement into words.

“It’s quite hard right now because it’s raw,” he said. “You have to hold it in my position, because you can’t let it affect the players, especially in the last few weeks when the pressure has been on.

“I am delighted with everybody in that changing room. They are the ones who got us promoted.

“Me, Wes and the staff, we prepare them and organise them. But ultimately, once they cross that white line, it’s over to them - I can’t affect it.

“It wasn’t a classic today, but it was a performance where the players were determined not to get beat.

“They put a shift in on a heavy pitch, against a team that killed us last season and took points off us at the same stage.

“I am very pleased at the moment, and as it sinks in more over the next 24 hours, I’ll be able to reflect on it.”

Picture Credit: South Shields