FOR the third year in a row, Lostock Gralam can put the Mid-Cheshire District FA Cup safely in their trophy cabinet.

With the competition returning for the first time since pre-Covid, the Grey Lambs were aiming to make it a hat-trick as they took on Middlewich Town in Saturday’s final.

And they did just that after a rampant second half earned a 3-0 win to ensure the trophy they have held since 2017 stayed in their possession.

The Lostock Gralam players celebrate with the trophy at full-time. Pictures: Karl Brooks Photography

The Lostock Gralam players celebrate with the trophy at full-time. Pictures: Karl Brooks Photography

Middlewich held home advantage with the final being played at Seddon Street and as the game kicked off, what followed was a nervy 45 minutes.

As both sides tried to find their feet in the game, chances were few and far between.

Once the teams turned around for the second half, however, that all changed as the Grey Lambs seized control.

Five minutes after the restart, Tom Hassall broke the deadlock with his fourth goal in two games to send them on their way.

The lead was doubled when Robbie Hatton came up with a fine finish, shooting across the Witches keeper and into the roof of the net.

Joe Duckworth rounded off the scoring, stroking the ball home to ensure the celebrations could begin for those in blue.

Goal celebrations for the Grey Lambs

Goal celebrations for the Grey Lambs

Goalkeeper Jacob Kirwan joins the celebrations

Goalkeeper Jacob Kirwan joins the celebrations