Boreham Wood are heading back to the National League after edging a tense play-off final against Maidstone United at a sold-out Meadow Park.
The victory sees The Wood reclaim their place in the fifth tier just over a year after suffering relegation. It capped a resilient campaign and confirmed an immediate return to the National League for a side determined to bounce back.
Clayden Strike Secures Promotion Glory
Boreham Wood nearly opened the scoring in the first half when Matt Rush failed to convert a low cross from Jayden Richardson, while at the other end, Nathan Ashmore was called into action to deny George Fowler’s header. Despite early chances, the first 45 minutes ended goalless as both sides battled for control in a cagey affair.
Two minutes after the restart, the game’s decisive moment arrived. Abdul Abdulmalik slalomed through Maidstone’s back line before threading a pass to Clayden, who unleashed a stunning left-footed shot into the top corner.
Maidstone, led by manager George Elokobi, responded with urgency. Fowler went close with a powerful drive on the hour mark, and substitute Sam Corne added fresh legs in midfield. The Stones pushed forward in the latter stages but struggled to break down a determined Wood defence.
Jacob Berkeley-Agyepong and Riley Court both had half-chances for the visitors, but Ashmore stood firm, denying a late rally from the Kent side. Boreham Wood substitute Kwesi Appiah could have put the result beyond doubt late on, but his header was held by Alexis Andre Jr.
In the end, Boreham Wood’s discipline, composure, and Clayden’s moment of brilliance proved enough to clinch promotion—sparking jubilant scenes at the final whistle after seven minutes of stoppage time.
Writer’s View
This was a textbook play-off final performance from Boreham Wood: defensively solid, tactically patient, and decisive when it mattered most. Luke Garrard’s ability to rebuild and re-focus his squad after relegation is no small feat, and the club’s resilience throughout the campaign deserves credit.
The return to the National League offers the Hertfordshire outfit a chance to re-establish themselves at a higher level, and with players like Abdulmalik and Clayden stepping up, there’s reason for optimism. For Maidstone, it’s heartbreak again—but Elokobi has assembled a promising squad that may not have to wait long for another shot at promotion.
