JUBILANT boss Nick Stocker lauded Tenbury United for banishing his decade of personal pain by lifting the Worcestershire Minor Cup.

United fought back from behind to beat Hanley Swan 2-1 thanks to a double from Ryan Morris at the County Sports Ground.

And while Stocker’s men might have been done no favours in their quest for the Herefordshire League crown with leaders Hinton walloping Leominster 6-1 to move nine points clear, the gaffer insisted it had been mission accomplished.

“At the start of the season this was the one I wanted to win,” said Stocker.

“We always knew the league would be a tough ask and we’ve done unbelievably well to get ourselves into the position we have but this cup was my aim.

“Ten years ago, I got to the final as a player and we were humiliated 7-1 in a very one-sided affair so to finally get my hands on the trophy meant an awful lot."

United knew little about their opponents but from the outset, it was clear they would be in for a tough battle as Hanley dominated and enjoyed plenty of possession.

In spite of that, Tenbury had the better chances with Chris Patton volleying wide after good work from skipper Alex Lombardi and Gavin Podmore flashing an effort narrowly past the upright.

Matt Kurkus saw the best chance of the half go begging when he cleared the crossbar from four yards having been teed up by Dale Withers.

United paid the price five minutes before half-time when a poorly-defended corner gifted Swan the opener but there was still time to level matters before the interval.

Tom Farr took advantage of Hanley not putting pressure on the ball to slide in Morris who coolly converted from close range.

From there, Tenbury were on top and Morris got the decider 10 minutes into the second half. Keeper Luke Gill and Gaz Edwards then produced last-ditch saves and clearances late on but United stood firm.

“On the day we were excellent,” Stocker added. “Hanley were a good side and a threat all game but the whole squad should feel proud.

“I had 19 players to choose from on the day but could only play 14. There were a few disappointed lads but they got right behind the team when it mattered and helped those on the pitch to get over the line.

“We also owe a big thank you to everyone who came to support us, we must have had 50 or 60 people and it helped a lot.”

Meanwhile, Tenbury Town know a win in their final Herefordshire One clash with Ludlow Colts on Saturday (2.30) will see them crowned champions.

Mark Boucker and Toby Gittens scored in a 2-2 home draw with Wellington Colts (pictured) that ended any hope the visitors had of pinching the title.

Kington Town reserves could still win it having beaten Ludlow ??? on Tuesday but they would need Tenbury to drop points and win their remaining three fixtures to take the top prize.