Fans relishing return to top football flight after 18-year absence

It was all smiles for the Boorman family as they watched twin brothers Tiarnán and Ruairi gain promotion to the Irish Premiership with Limavady United [Sharon Boorman] Fans of Limavady United are relishing their return to the Irish Premiership after a long 18-year absence, securing promotion to the top flight with a 2–0 win over Annagh United on Saturday. United needed to avoid defeat to finish as champions and secure promotion, sealing the title with a strong performance at the weekend. John Butcher opened the scoring on 14 minutes from the penalty spot after Annagh's Ross Redman was sent off for handball, before adding a second late on after being set up by Alfie Gaston.

Supporters have said the team's success has lifted the whole town with fans already eagerly awaiting the likes of Linfield, Glentoran and Coleraine at the Limavady Showgrounds next season. Stanley Callaghan, aged 80, is a former player, manager, current committee member and above all a lifelong supporter of Limavady United [Limavady United] Stanley Callaghan, referred to affectionately as "Stan the Man" around the Limavady Showgrounds, has been following the Roesiders for as long as he can remember and said he cannot wait to see the team competing in the Sports Direct Premiership next season. Stan, aged 80, has been a player, manager and now a committee member during his long association with Limavady United.

He said that seeing the club get back in the Irish Premiership is "just fantastic for a wee town that is punching well above its weight". Stan, who managed the team during the 1970s, said a huge amount of praise must go to manager Paul Owens and his backroom staff for their fantastic season. "Paul has just been immense.

He really is committed to the role and gives 100% 24/7," Stan said. "The players have all been absolutely fantastic, you know the likes of the Lowry brothers, the Boorman twins, John Butcher, young Alfie Gaston and just everybody. "The whole team has taken it to a whole new level and only losing four games in the league all season, they really are deserved champions.