Vale of White Horse manager Des Williams was delighted for his players after they were handed a place in the ESFA Under 15 Trophy final following the decision to boot out their semi-final conquerors, Bromley, for fielding an ineligible player.

A 1-0 defeat at Beckenham Town looked to have ended Vale’s terrific run.

But in a dramatic twist, it has emerged that Bromley’s goalkeeper was ineligible as he had moved to a school in another district.

The ESFA threw Bromley out, and although the Kent association lodged an appeal, it was rejected.

In the final, Vale will face Newcastle upon Tyne, who beat Warrington 4-2 on penalties after their semi-final finished goalless.

Vale manager Des Williams had sympathy for Bromley, but at the same time was thrilled for his team.

“I am absolutely delighted for the boys,” he said. “They have worked so hard through the year.

“I feel sorry for Bromley because I don’t believe they have done this knowingly in any way, but having said that you have to make sure that your boys are eligible.

“There is no way that they have tried to cheat. I am absolutely certain of that, but if you play someone who is ineligible in a cup competition then there is only one outcome.”

ST Birinus, Didcot, triumphed in the Vale of White Horse Under 16 six-a-side competition.

They beat Langtree (Woodcote) 4-1 in the final, with Jack Westhead (2), Seth Humphries and an own goal making up their tally, Jamal Robinson replying.