THORNLEIGH lifted the under-15s Bolton Schools’ Cup with a penalty shootout victory over Rivington and Blackrod.

They reached their fourth consecutive final the hard way against three of the toughest teams in the competition, a 1-0 win against Bolton School in the semi-final following extra-time victories over Turton and Canon Slade.

Thornleigh came from behind in the final at Old Boltonians' Tower Street ground, Joe Adams giving Rivington an early lead from the penalty spot.

Ben Tomlinson headed in from a corner and a Declan Smith finish after a slick counter attack made it 2-1 at half time.

Thornleigh levelled when Dylan Jeffs' corner crept in at the far post and Thornleigh won the shootout 3-1 with successful spot kicks from Ted Moulden, Dylan Jeffs and Alex Williams and Thornleigh goalkeeper Kain McGaughey saving three out of the four spot kicks.