SUBSTITUTE Matty Sparling earned Ransomes Sports a first-ever Omnico Cup triumph to continue the club's remarkable rags-to-riches success story.
By Mel Henderson
Ransomes 2 Achilles 1
SUBSTITUTE Matty Sparling earned Ransomes Sports a first-ever Omnico Cup triumph to continue the club's remarkable rags-to-riches success story.
Delighted chairman Alan McDougall, who works for a firm of stockbrokers, admitted: “We have struggled to keep this club going - but this makes it all worthwhile.
“There were times in the past when we worried that we would have to pack in, but this win confirms we are moving in the right direction.”
McDougall heaped praise on manager Glenn Bradlaugh, assistant Danny Barber and the players, as well as his colleagues on the committee.
Previously Fisons, the club found itself without a home and were forced to change their name when the company sold their Bent Lane ground to Ipswich Town.
They found temporary headquarters at Copleston High School and Gainsborough Sports Centre before moving into Sidegate Avenue when Ransomes FC folded.
Sparling, at 26 the club's oldest outfield player, netted a stunning extra-time goal as Ransomes finally overcame Achilles in their fourth meeting of the season at Notcutts Park, Woodbridge, last night.
Full report and celebration team picture - see tonight's Star
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