Crossflatts Village 2 Bradford Phoenix 1

RESOLUTE defending and superb goalkeeping from man of the match Dominic Bennett proved to be the defining factors as Crossflatts Village came from a goal behind to beat Bradford Phoenix 2-1 and lift the Keighley FA Sunday Cup for the second time in their history.

On a swelteringly hot morning at Silsden, Bradford Sunday Alliance side Phoenix started brightly and deservedly took the lead after only seven minutes.

Andrew McHugh found space outside the Flatts box and excellently volleyed home from 20 yards - much to the delight of the Phoenix supporters.

Village manager Stevie George gave his side a deserved rollicking from the sidelines and his words had the desired effect after 16 minutes when his side drew level with their first real attack of the game.

Jake Rendell’s exquisite left-wing corner was headed into his own goal by Phoenix defender Lewis Leighton.

Village then scored what proved to be the decisive goal of the game on 35 minutes.

Midfielder James Gill let fly from 35 yards and the shot appeared to be going straight at Phoenix keeper Chris Saville - but he let it through his grasp.

The game opened up in the second half and Village had Bennett to thank for preserving their lead.

Bennett made four superb saves to deny Bradley Holland, Karl Bennett and Jack Halliday twice - and his side held on for a nervy 2-1 win.

It meant Village matched the achievement of the 2011/2012 side, who had won the cup on the same ground after overcoming New Variety Club on penalties.

Special praise must also go to Village’s back four of George Clarke, Craig Durn, Kevin Gill and Peter Atkinson, who did well to keep Phoenix’s attacking players at bay for most of the match.

Village’s attention now turns to the Wharfedale Triangle League Cup final ton Sunday, May 22. They face Yeadon Veterans as they look to complete the cup double.