Pitchero Non League

Kevin Brock

....final of the Bluefin Insurance Brokers Challenge Cup.

But the holders had to wait until extra-time to secure their place with Adam Richmond grabbing the only goal of the game in Monday’s semi-final against Wantage Town.

In Monday’s final, Ardley will meet Division One East champions Holyport United at Thame United’s ASM Stadium.

Ardley finished off their Premier Division campaign in style with a 4-1 victory over Slimbridge.

Carl Standen scored two early goals for Ardley before Rob Hine reduced the arrears for the Swans. Goals from Scott Bridges and Troy Bryan in the last 5 minutes finally sealed the three points.

And Brock was delighted with the way his side bounced back from missing out on the championship and feels there is unfinished business for him at Oxford Road.

“I won the league in my first season at Banbury United and it was very disappointing not to win it this time, especially as we had been top for twenty-six weeks,” said the Ardley boss.

“But I’ve been very pleased with some of the football we’ve played this season, we’ve got some good players but it’s a very young squad and I’m sure they will be mentally stronger for next season. The aim at the start of the season was to win the league and I want to go for it again next season.”

Looking ahead to Monday’s final, Brock added: “Holyport beat us in the Floodlit Cup earlier in the year and, although I made several changes that night, I was very impressed with them.

“We will be favourites but they are going into the final as champions and it will be a difficult game.”

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