It was always going to be a battle. Facing a determined Thorntonians side away from home — the very team who knocked Dorkinians out of the cup semi-final — this fixture had all the ingredients for a gritty encounter. But with just one point needed to secure the league title, the 6s stepped up when it mattered most.

A Fast Start, A Title Statement

With Martin and Wardy urging a fast start, the boys delivered. From the very first corner of the game, captain Chris Ward whipped in a dangerous ball to the penalty spot, and C. Sutherland rose like a skyscraper to power home a towering header. 1-0 and a dream start.

But this wasn’t a game for the faint-hearted. Crunching tackles and real physicality set the tone, and Jarvis battled through a sprained ankle after a tough early challenge, showing incredible heart to carry on until the second half.

Twists, Turns & First-Half Fireworks

Thorntonians found a way back in via a controversial penalty decision that left the Dorks baffled. Coolly converted, it was all square.

But Chris Bark had other ideas. Picking up the ball and weaving his way through defenders, he slammed home a stunning solo effort to restore the lead — only for Thorns to hit straight back on the counter. 2-2 and end-to-end chaos.

Then, just before half-time, smart footwork from Thurgood drew a foul from the goalkeeper and Max Ridler stepped up to bury the spot-kick. 3-2 Dorkinians at the break.

The second half was about discipline, resilience, and big moments from big players.
The back four stood tall, soaking up pressure, and Williams came up clutch with some top-class saves to keep the lead intact.

Then came the moment of the match. With 10 minutes to go, Thurgood bulldozed through two defenders and lobbed the keeper with a calmness that belied the chaos around him. His celebration? Like a human game of Jenga — stacked high, limbs everywhere, pure limbs.

Though Thorntonians pulled one back late, the final whistle blew at 4-3. Cue the scenes.
Dorkinians 6th – Division 5 South Champions 2025.

A season defined by character, quality, and togetherness.
A day that will live long in club history.