May 21

CHAMPIONS OF CORNWALL!

Penzance were crowned Cornwall Disability League Championship winners after a thrilling climax to the season at sun-drenched Enys Parc, St Agnes.

The Magpies went into Sunday's finale in pole position in both League and Championship. The League side, managed by Andy Farley and holding a single point lead at the start of play, opened with a 6-0 win over Brandon Trust. However, a 1-1 draw against host club St Agnes proved costly allowing Troon to take over at the top and set up a decider that Penzance had to win. Goals from Coby Wear and Wes Hall secured a 2-2 draw, but Troon were champions.

The Penzance Disability League Team.

In the longer format Championship section, the Magpies held a four point lead at the start of play over Troon. However, things looked iffy when they lost their opener to Dropship 2-0 whilst Troon despatched Aggie 4-0 to reduce the margin to a single point.

A 5-0 victory over St Agnes courtesy of a Connor Thomas hat-trick and a brace from Conor Allen eased the nerves, and the Penzance lads were soon joyously cavorting on the touchline as Dropship beat Troon 2-0 to mathematically seal their deal.

With the pressure removed, goals from Connor Thomas and Harvey Smith secured a 2-0 win for the new champions in their final game against Troon. At the end, captain Andy Hesketh was presented with the Championship trophy by Cornwall FA Football Services Manager Richard Pallot (and was promptly drenched in champagne by Wes Hall). Furthermore, Connor Thomas received the Top Scorer of the Season award for his astonishing tally of 58.

Of course for these players, who face challenges in their everyday lives, it is 99% about participation. But, judging by their celebrations, to add an extra 1% gratification from winning clearly meant heaps. Congratulations to them all, and to manager Dave Smith and coach Pete Coombes for giving them a platform and preparing them so well. And thank to St Agnes Football Club for expertly hosting such an enjoyable occasion.