HOWCROFT Old Boys made it a league and cup double after overcoming a jaded looking RS Walkden side in the final of the Bolton Sunday League Colborne Shield. Following this defeat Walkden's season can now be summed up in the phrase always the bridesmaid but never the bride.

After leading the Bolton Sunday League Third Division for nearly the season they ran out of steam to finish runners-up to the Old Boys. In this game, they were found wanting of that little extra drive that makes a side winners rather than second best.

The game opened up in glorious sunshine at Meadow Close, the home of Little Lever.

Star striker Alan Mitchell gave immediate notice of his intent to add to his 66 goals for the season when he whistled one past the upright in the very first minute.

After that, he was well contained by a tight Walkden back four that rarely looked troubled. Indeed, for much of the first half they looked slightly the better side, although they found chances hard to come by.

The half was something of a disappointment, tension showing in both teams making it a decidedly downbeat occasion.

It only came to life in the last minute of the half as Paul Samuels cut in from the right wing.

Beating his full back, he found Alan Mitchell in the box who had his shot blocked.

As the ball bobbled about eagle eyed referee Barry Evans spotted a Carl Beal handball on the line and pointed to the spot.

Alan Mitchell doesn't miss from there and goal number 67whistled into the net from his trusty left peg.

The second period was a vast improvement on the first as Sid Patel started to shine in the sun, scampering down the right wing, ably assisted by Paul Samuels. Wilted

Driving down the slope, the Old Boys started to get on top as Walkden visibly wilted in the heat.

Mid-field dynamo Ernie Blaskovic got hold of midfield for the Old Boys and was starting to run the show.

His running and penetrating passes meant only one side was going home with the silverware and that was Howcroft Old Boys.

The killer goal came on 75 minutes, courtesy of a Blaskovic pass as he released Sid Patel down the centre of the pitch.

With Walkden defenders missing he latched onto the ball and lobbed the oncoming keeper for a quality finish.

The Old Boys were worthy winners in the end, Walkden unable to raise their game as the temperature soared and fitness told.

Two trophies now on the sideboard means the end of a super season for the Old Boys.