TWO goals from Rob James helped Hinton force a remarkable comeback to win their first-ever Veterans' League title.

This year's Herefordshire Mind tournament took on a different format due to the forced shortened season.

After a fiercely fought group stage, the top four fought out the semi-finals with the two group winners, Civil Service and Hinton, successfully navigating their way to the final.

Civil Service looked to be on their way to retaining their title after racing to a 2-0 lead thanks to goals from Danny Crowther.

But good work from Hinton midfielder Jonny Williams handed James the chance to halve the deficit and the striker soon brought the scores level with a low shot from close range.

Hinton had finished runner-up to Civil Service in the past two years but took the Shield this summer when Ross Semple added to his growing tally of veteran league goals to grab the winner.

Holme Lacy were the other side to come away with silverware from the veterans contest after taking the Plate trophy following a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Fownhope.

The villagers had both finished third in their groups before seeing off Hereford City and Hay-on-Wye in the semi-finals of the Plate contest.

Adam White opened the scoring for Lacy with a 25-yard free-kick before Roger Price doubled the advantage with a brave header.

Fine work from Danny Johns and James Anderson late on created space for Tim Powell to score with a fine 25-yard strike and seal the victory.

Joe Mathias, League Secretary was delighted with how the season unfolded

“For a while it looked like the veterans’ season wouldn’t be taking place this year so it’s brilliant to see it all culminate like it has done today," he said.

"Full credit to all the teams and match officials who got themselves organised and ready to go in just a couple of weeks after we received the green light – the new format has worked really well and ensured that the competition between teams remains high throughout.

"The feedback from the teams has been really positive and I’ve been told there is interest in continuing the Veterans football on Sundays during the regular season so this is definitely something we will be looking at.”

For the first time this season, the league was sponsored by Herefordshire Mind.

Alicia Lawrence, who presented the League Shield to Hinton FC added: “Herefordshire Mind was delighted to support the HFA Veterans league as we recognise what a positive impact physical exercise can have on someone's mental health.

"Team sports such as football also bring the added benefit of personal connection and a sense of belonging that can really help maintain positive wellbeing.

"We also recognise that male suicide remains the most common cause of death for men aged 20 to 49 in the UK and we are keen to promote our new Safe Haven service which can provide support for anyone at the point of crisis.

"Our service is available Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evenings by phone (01432 372407) and email safehaven@herefordshire-mind.org.uk or through pre booked face to face appointments.

"We work across Herefordshire to ensure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone.”