Webster’s cool smile before scoring the decisive penalty in a shootout against Solihull Moors, sealing Bromley’s promotion, became an instant sensation on social media. The defender, who has twice previously won at Wembley, admitted the media attention after the National League play-off final in May was unlike anything he had ever experienced.
Speaking to BBC Radio London, the 37-year-old reflected on the whirlwind publicity that followed the club’s achievement. “It was crazy, really, really crazy,” he said. “Maybe because I was captain and took the winning penalty there was a lot of publicity, questions, and interviews, but it just blew up.”
Despite being in the spotlight, Webster was keen to emphasise the importance of the team effort. “People forget that Granty [Grant Smith] saved two penalties, and that Cheeky [Michael Cheek] scored two in the game,” he said, highlighting the crucial contributions of his teammates in their dramatic victory.
For Webster, the aftermath of promotion has been unlike anything in his long career. “I was invited to make speeches at different places, and even Rio Ferdinand sent me a message; which was great because I’m a [Manchester] United fan,” he revealed with a grin.
The captain also firmly believes that Bromley’s rise to League Two is fully deserved. “We’re not a cartoon character team where we don’t deserve to be there, because we do,” he said, insisting that the team has earned their place in the EFL through hard work and resilience. “Bromley are in the Football League but we’re not nuggets, because we know how to play football and deserve to be there.”
Bromley’s early results in League Two have been promising, with the team currently sitting in tenth place after two wins from their opening four fixtures, including a season-opening victory away at Harrogate Town. The club’s ambition and belief are clear as they adapt to life in the Football League.
Webster’s leadership both on and off the pitch has clearly been pivotal in Bromley’s recent success. However, the defender is eager to ensure that the team’s accomplishments are recognised collectively, not just through individual moments of glory.
With Bromley now firmly in the EFL, Webster is adamant that the squad is ready to face the challenges of professional football and prove their worth. “We’ve taken all the accolades and been the butt of people’s jokes, but now we’re here to do a job,” he said confidently.
Our View
The historic promotion has thrust both Webster and Bromley into the national spotlight, but the captain remains focused on the task ahead – securing the club’s place in League Two and continuing their remarkable journey.
As Bromley continue to settle into life in the EFL, Webster’s words resonate with the same determination that saw them earn their promotion: “We deserve to be in the EFL, and we’re here to do a job.”
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