FOOTBALLERS from Barnton claim their principal ambition this season is to win promotion back to the Cheshire League’s top tier.

They would not, though, say no to being crowned the best team in the county.

The Villagers remain on course to achieve both after a thrilling penalty shoot out success against West Cheshire League champions Ashville on Saturday landed them a semi finals place in the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup.

“Now we’re there we want to win it,” said co-manager Ian Ross.

“I can’t imagine any league game taking priority over a cup tie as big as this one, it’s a great distraction to have.”

His team’s feat is made more remarkable by its context.

Barnton are the first side from the Cheshire League to reach the last four since they won the competition back in 2004.

Back then they were title-winners too.

Ross said: “It’s nice to receive the plaudits we have for doing well.

“The exciting thing is that I feel there are lots of areas in which we can improve, particularly defensively.”

Barnton led twice on Saturday, thanks to goals from Karl Brown and Leon Williams, only for Ashville – who lifted the trophy as recently as 2011 – to fight back both times.

Ross revealed that he had seven volunteers to take spot kicks after extra time ended, six of those hitting the target while Ashville missed once.

He added: “We were comfortable at half time, then things started to go wrong.

“Our two front men were forced off injured and we made another tactical substitution, so were down to the bare bones for the added half hour.

“I’m sure any neutrals there enjoyed it, although it’s not much fun for me as a manager when it goes to the wire like that.”

Barnton join West Cheshire League pair Vauxhall Motors reserves and West Kirby in the semi finals draw.

The remaining last four tie, between Upton AA and holders Heswall, takes place this weekend.