CHARLTON Royals won the Andover and District Sunday Football League Junior Cup 3-0 in a thrilling encounter, writes RICHARD DERBYSHIRE

The Royals in the end proved too good for their Division Two rivals AMF United at Foxcotte Park last Sunday.

Fast-paced winger Ben Morris caused early trouble for the AMF defence with several close chances.

He was then instrumental in Royals’ taking the lead before half time when his 25-yard free kick met a super header by midfielder Marcus Poole.

AMF pushed players up the field, with prolific striker Robbie Skeates always a threat to Royals’ defence of Pete Puplett, Pete Chance, Josh Fellows and man of the match Michael Donker.

Hard work from midfielders Mikey Adams, Jack Langdown and captain Daniel Hanchant, and goalkeeper Gavin Davies, also thwarted opposition chances.

The second goal again originated from Morris after his corner kick led to striker Chris Berntsen beating a crowded six-yard box to head home.

The game, refereed by Tony Wells, concluded when winger Mitchell Donley won a header in the AMF half, passing the ball on to Morris who then rifled his own goal into the top left hand corner.

Charlton Royals’ manager Richard Derbyshire praised the whole squad, including match substitutes Keith Surtees, Daryl Robins, Stephen Leighton and Dean O’Shea.

Royals booked their place in the final thanks to 4-1 semi-final victory over Broughton 1901.

Berntsen led the scoring in this game with brace and there was one each for Morris and Robins.