HEREFORD FC Under-16s won the Junior Premier League National Cup Final at Aston Villa's Bodymoor Heath training ground.

Having won the cup last year as under-15s, the team saw off a strong Aylestone Park side 3-1.

Steve Saunders' side raced into the lead after 14 minutes when a Cameron Gauci cross was met by the head of Luke Firkin.

Six minutes later, Firkin combined with strike partner Liam Bishop, whose pinpoint through ball saw Jack Marston race through and slot home comfortably.

Aylestone Park had chances to scored before they did reduced the deficit when Hereford failed to clear a free-kick.

However, the young Bulls restored their two-goal advantage when Firkin chased down a ball into the corner before crossing for Jake Spink to score.

“What a remarkable achievement for this group of players to win national finals two seasons on the bounce," said Hereford coach Steve Saunder.

"They’re a tight knit group who work ever so hard for each other.

"We’re prone to having an off day every so often, but I must say for the last few weeks they have been superb.”

“Ben Vanstone at centre half tackled, blocked and won important headers, while Luke Firkin up top did everything we’ve been asking of him and was involved in all three goals.

"I hope they stick together and continue their journey towards senior football together.”