THE future is clearly very bright at Barnton Football Club.

On the back of some of their younger age groups winning league and cup titles, the club’s under 16s emerged as the best in the county at the weekend.

They beat Timperley Barca 3-1 in the Cheshire Cup Final played at Vauxhall Motors FC thanks to a brace from Jack Hill, including a spectacular free kick.

Louis Patterson, who was named as the game’s player of the match, scored Barnton’s other goal on the day.

It is the second time in three years the Villagers have won the trophy, having also done so in 2022.

“To win the Cheshire Cup twice now is a fantastic achievement for a village club,” Barnton chairman Dave Bryning said.

“We’re super proud of them all and what a special group. The future’s very bright at Barnton Juniors/AFC.”

The team’s manager Steve Woods added: “We feel really pleased and privileged. We’re really proud of the group.

“On the balance of the game, it was pretty much a game of two halves – we decided to kick with the wind in the first half and made the most of it.

“We dug in in the second half and were pleased to limit them to long-distance shots, so we were worthy winners.”

This followed the club’s under 13s winning the Mid-Cheshire District Cup via a penalty shoot-out last weekend, with the under 12s boys lifting the Mid-Cheshire League Division Two title earlier in the year.

“It’s a fantastic achievement for a Village club and everyone connected should be very proud,” Bryning said.

“We have a great set-up for boys and girls at Barnton Academy and Barnton Wildcats all the way through to Barnton AFC and Barnton Ladies.

“I’d like to thank all the players, spectators and our fantastic group of volunteers and committee for their commitment this season.

“Without you, this club doesn’t exist.”