AN extra-time wonder strike by Daisy Mullan helped Academy Juniors Under-12s to a 1-0 win against Blackpool in the West Lancashire Girls League cup final – and prompt a surprise visit by Bolton Wanderers’ legend Kevin Davies.

Davies’ charity – KiDs Of Bolton – is the team’s long-term sponsor, so he surprised the fledgling side by dropping in on a practise session to present the cup and pose for photos.

Manager Emma Thompson said the now Preston North End striker’s visit and the cup win was a fitting way to celebrate a season that has seen them lose just one game.

The cup final against Blackpool was played under the floodlights at Burscough FC and Academy Juniors were determined to go one better than the runners-up position they secured in the league.

After a slightly nervous start it was Academy who settled first and Mullan caused Blackpool all sorts of problems with her creativity, pace and magnificent power.

Unfortunately, it appeared that at times the girls may have been trying too hard and could either not hit the target or find a way beyond the impressive Blackpool goalkeeper.

Amy O’Connell and Libby Potter both had headed chances to break the deadlock in the first half but couldn’t get enough power on their efforts.

At half time, Thompson told her young charges not to have any regrets and the only thing missing in the second period was the final finish.

Blackpool ran themselves into the ground but had a chance right at the death when they were given a fortunate free kick on the edge of the box, but the wall was organised fantastically by Niamh Worthington, Francesca Edwards and goalkeeper Kate Dziobon and was deflected away for a corner.

Blackpool’s goalkeeper made a last-minute save with her foot and the match went to extra time and the possibility of penalties if a winner could not be found.

However, midway through the first period of extra time Aimee Hampton’s delightful through ball was seized upon by Mullan, who powered a thunderbolt strike into the roof of the net to send her team-mates and families into euphoria.

Blackpool kept on fighting, but Academy deserved their win after a fantastic season.