A LATE strike from George Colven earned Crannog a dramatic 3-2 triumph over division one leaders Bargod Rangers to lift the Costcutter Ceredigion League Cup at Cae Sgwar on Easter Monday.

The final appeared to be heading into extra time, with Rangers in the ascendency after hitting back from two goals down, until Colven struck a dramatic winning goal, to earn the Llangrannog club the silverware for the first time in 12 years.

“I really thought we’d blown it when Bargod came back from 2-0 down, they were all over us in the final quarter, and we were really under the `cosh,” admitted delighted Crannog manager Dylan Evans.

“We’ve stuck at it, we showed superb character and fitness levels, and managed to get that all-important third goal to deny them, and spark off our celebrations.”

The match started at a brisk pace, with Owen Thomas forcing Rangers keeper Joe Turner into making a superb save, before the deadlock was broken on half an hour.

Experienced centre back Huw Reed found the net when he fired in a free kick from outside the penalty box, and a fortuitous bounce caught out keeper Turner.

Five minutes later, Crannog were two-up when Owen Thomas netted after a speculative cross from Ben May fell into his path, following a mix up in defence.

It looked a long way back for Rangers, who last lifted the trophy two years ago, but two goals in 10 minutes either side of half-time set up an exciting final quarter.

Impressive full back Rhydian Davies reduced the deficit with an excellent finish, and a goal from Shaun Leonard on the hour brought Bargod back on level terms.

Still carrying hopes of a league and cup double, Rangers pushed back their opponents into their own penalty box, and the likes of Reed and skipper Mike Glover had to defend firmly to keep them out.

Crannog keeper Huw Morgan was forced into making some timely interventions, with at least one top drawer save, as Rangers pressed their superiority late on.

With extra-time looming, however, Crannog pushed forward and when Colven sneaked in to intercept a poor back pass his initial shot came back off the post, before he followed up to tuck it away.

Match-winner Colven was awarded the man of the match award, and Crannog captain Glover lifted the trophy for only the second time in the club’s history.

“Bargod played some excellent football and gave us a torrid time in the second half, and at one time I thought we were going to be steam-rollered as they hit us with everything,” said manager Evans.

“They are a very good side, but we just managed to hang on in there when it mattered, and showed real determination.

“I was pleased with our overall performance, especially in the first half, and the way in which our centre backs dealt with the threat of players like Dion Phillips.”

• The team were handed new strips before the game from club sponsor Mike Rutherford of the Pentre Arms, Llangrannog, and Evans thanked him for his generosity.