CHAMPAGNE corks were popping in Irvine as players from a local amateur football team got their hands on silverware in their last match of the season.

Lawthorn AFC, from the Ayrshire Sunday Amateur FA, defeated Troon Town 2-1 in the final of the Thistle Steel Cup at Victoria Park in Irvine.

Lawthorn began the game on top and took a deserved lead in the first half as Scott Jennings lobbed the on-rushing Troon goalkeeper.

However, Troon were offered a route back into the game before the end of the first 45 after the dubious awarding of a penalty for handball.

And though Kieran Rae's initial effort from 12 yards was saved by Callum Mason, the attacker converted the rebound the level the tie.

Though in the second half, super sub Billy McGinn came on to notch the winner.

He converted from the penalty spot after a spot kick was awarded following a foul from the Troon goalkeeper.

And despite a late onslaught from the South Ayrshire side, Lawthorn held out thanks to some heroic goalkeeping and last ditch defending.

Raucous celebrations followed as the Irvine side celebrated capping a fantastic season off with silverware in hand.

Having only formed, joining the Ayrshire Sunday Amateur Association League, last season, it has been an impressive year for Lawthorn.

They finished third in the league this season, and reached the last 32 of the Sunday Amateur Scottish Cup.

The Thistle Steel Cup was their first taste of trophy success, and something they will hope to build on as they go again next season.