PAUL Moore admitted Winsford United had pushed his side before Witton Albion lifted the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup for the first time since 2009.

James Foley scored the only goal of a close final at Wincham Park, where the hosts withstood near-constant pressure from Blues during the second-half.

“They matched us,” said Albion’s goalkeeper coach afterwards.

“I went into their dressing room after the game to congratulate them on their performance – I felt they deserved that acknowledgement after applying themselves in the way they did.

“We achieved what we set out to and any cup at any level, wherever you may be, is lovely to get your hands on.”

Moore took charge in the absence of manager Carl Macauley and Gary Martindale, his number two, on a night when their opponents almost forced a penalty shoot-out.

However they were thwarted by goalkeeper Ryan Neild’s stunning save to deny player-manager Lee Duckworth late on.

“I’m happy for Ryan,” added Moore.

“He hasn’t had an opportunity to play often, but produced two wonderful stops after half-time when we needed him to.

“As a former goalkeeper, I understand what it’s been like for him.

“He’s stayed upbeat, and has proven he’s ready when we call on him.”

Albion had chances of their own, particularly during their best spell of the contest shortly before the break.

It yielded a winner for Foley, who darted onto a ball steered into his path by captain Rob Hopley before sending it through the narrowest of gaps at the near post.

Moore said: “It was a good goal, borne of decent movement.

“There were moments when we showed the class we have – the goal is one, and Ryan’s save at the end is another – and it caps what I think has been a successful season.

“These lads deserve a cup, and it’s a win I hope the fans can enjoy too.

“A local cup, one where you have to beat your neighbours, means they can have bragging rights going into next year.”