BARSHAM lifted the Bungay Charity Cup at the Maltings Meadow on Friday evening in dramatic style after a thrilling final in front of a large crowd.

Against last season’s winners Norton they took the lead, only for Norton to score twice in five minutes midway through the second half. But Barsham equalised eight minutes from the end, and with extra time producing no further goals, it went to penalties.

Keeper Alan Anderson became the hero with two saves to see his side win the shoot-out 5-4, and Charity Cup secretary Graham Mickleburgh presented the 88-year-old trophy to the winning captain, Paul Clark.

Final score Norton Athletic 2, Barsham 2 (Barsham won 5-4 on penalties)

Charity Cup president Terry Reeve praised the sporting spirit in which the exciting final was fought, and thanked all eight teams who took part and spectators for their support, and the Bungay and District Sports Association and Bungay Town FC for making the Maltings Meadow facilities available for all matches.

The competition raised close to �900.

He also thanked Jimmy Bennett, of Earsham Gravel, for sponsoring the trophies and Jonathan Watts of R Charlish Ltd for sponsoring the match balls. He also presented mementoes to the players of both teams, and the Harry Webster Shield to the runners-up.

Charity Cup chairman Jimmy Deacon presented a cheque for �500 to Matthew Hall, of Earsham, who received a serious injury while playing nearly two years ago. The committee had felt he was a deserving special case to receive a donation from funds.

Those who know of charities, local projects or good causes they feel could benefit from a grant from the cup committee, call Graham Mickleburgh on 01996 892674.