Llanidloes Town brought the curtain down on a miserable season by retaining the Banwy Fuels Montgomeryshire Cup on Saturday.
A late strike from Elliot Jones proved just enough for the Daffodils to see off MMP Central Wales League North champions Kerry in a hotly contested final in Caersws which pitted last season’s finalists head to head once again.
Llanidloes made the stronger start when George Clarke crossed for Elliot Jones only for Kerry defender Jamie Huxley to make a vital block.
Kerry began to impose themselves as Barry Bellis and ex-Caersws midfielder Glynn Coney created problems.
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The prolific Richard Davies was presented a chance and beat goalkeeper Luke Evans but a superb clearance off the line by Harri Clarke saved the day for the Daffodils.
Kerry were dealt a major blow before the interval when defender Finley Bellamore sustained an arm injury following an awkward fall and forced off.
The second half started with Llanidloes looking to stretch the Lambs’ defence with Rhys Evan and George Clarke seeing plenty of the ball.
Kerry underlined their own threat with Coney twice going close as the match entered its final stages.
Bellis also saw an effort blocked in a packed goalmouth as Llanidloes desperately sought to defend Luke Evans’ goal.
The stalemate was broken in the 80th minute when George Clarke put a low ball beyond Kerry’s defence for Jones to slot home to the delight of the Daffs’ faithful.
Kerry pressed for an equaliser but to no avail as referee Neil Rutter blew the final whistle the celebrations started for Llanidloes Town who were crowned Montgomeryshire Cup champions for the 25th time in their history.
Kerry manager Ben Davies praised his team for their performance as their wait for county cup honours continued, saying: “Credit to Llani, they probably showed that little more experience to see the game out and get over the line.
“Congratulations to them on the win.”
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