In 1895, the clubs were the first time champions of the West Ham Charity Cup which was contested by the local clubs. This win was followed by the London League victory in 1897. The team stepped into the professional football circuit after entering the Southern League Second Division and was readily promoted to the First Division in their first attempt. The following year, West Ham United tried to establish themselves as a full fledged competitive team. In the late 1900s, they easily defeated Fulham F.C. in the play-off match and retained their First Division status.