AFC Totton have been promoted to the National League South following a 1-0 play-off final win over Gloucester City on Monday.
Ethan Taylor's winner 15 minutes from time ensured Jimmy Balls' Stags claimed promotion to the sixth tier a year after losing the last play-off final to Salisbury.
Taylor lobbed Jared Thompson after Tony Lee's inspired flicked pass to score the winner, and the visitors, despite sustained pressure, failed to hit back.
Totton and Gloucester could not be separated when they faced off in league action this season, with both games ending level.
The Stags booked their place in the final courtesy of an epic 4-3 win over Dorchester, while Gloucester beat Walton & Hersham on penalties.
After a slow, cagey start to the game at a windy Snows Stadium, the clouds opened as the AFC Totton defence did the same.
FULL TIME AFC TOTTON 1-0 GLOUCESTER! STAGS PROMOTED TO NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH! 🔵⚪️👏 pic.twitter.com/bZJA3MBVWp
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) May 5, 2025
Elis Watts saw a well-hit effort saved after cutting in from the right wing, and that started a succession of Gloucester chances.
Sam Magri had to produce a last-ditch tackle after a strong run from Kevin Dawson and headed clear moments later.
Totton weathered the storm, although former Malta international Magri nearly turned into his own net, and ultimately had the best chance of the half.
In the first of two added minutes, Scott Rendell saw a show blocked before Taylor crashed over after a goalmouth scramble.
The hosts were much improved after the restart but did have to withstand another period of Gloucester pressure.
Ryan Gosney spared his own blushes after a loose pass invited a Gloucester chance. He raced out to smother the ball and claim the rebound.
Totton took the lead just a few minutes later when Taylor dinked over the goalkeeper after Lee’s smart lofted pass, sending the Stags fans into raptures.
Former Saints forward Charlie Austin entered just before added time and was mobbed by pitch-invading supporters following the full-time whistle.
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