Hatherop are the GFA Intermediate Cup North kings after a quickfire start set them up for victory against Sharpness Reserves in last night’s final.

Two first-half goals by centre-half Dave Legg and centre-forward Chris Mills – the only goals of the game – gave them a hard-fought success at Bishop’s Cleeve.

It’s been a special few days for Hatherop because they have also won Division One of the Witney and District League which means they will play in the Premier Division for the first time in 2025/26.

Last night’s success, which saw 49-year-old Jon Austin go on as a late substitute, capped an amazing campaign and Adam Townsend, who has been manager for the past six-and-a-half years, said: “We were very good for the first 30 to 35 minutes.

“They started to get back into it but we were very good defensively in the second half.

“The gameplan is always to attack but we’re more than capable of defending, our back four is immense.”

Sharpness Reserves, who are chasing promotion from Division Two of the Stroud League – they are third in the 13-strong division – did have their moments with Tom Paterson going closest when he hit a shot against the post.

But it was Hatherop’s night as they celebrated what they think is their first County Cup win.

“I asked my old man last night, he’s been involved with the club since the 1960s and 1970s,” said Townsend, who is also the club’s chairman.

“He can’t remember us ever winning a County Cup although I do remember us getting to a final once.”

Townsend’s dad Jim is the club’s vice-chairman and is a former player, just like his son.

“Hatherop are the only club I played for as an adult,” said Townsend junior with some pride. “I’m a one-club man.

“Last night’s County Cup win is definitely up there with my best moments in football, the County Cup is the one that has always evaded us, it was a brilliant night.”

Hatherop, who used to play in the Cirencester League and were known as CHQ United, will be presented with their league trophy on Saturday when they host Siege in their final game of the campaign.

The club will hold their presentation evening after the game.