HELSBY FC ended a six-year wait for silverware on Friday by winning the R&DFA's Saturday Challenge Cup, beating fellow Carlsberg West Cheshire Division Two side Halton FC 3-0 at Pavilions.

Helsby came into the game in good form, having lost just one of their previous eight league games.

But the villagers' bright opening was rewarded after five minutes, man-of-the-match Gaz Gerrard rising majestically to head home.

Gary Cottiga's effort was cleared off the line by a defender but Helsby remained on top.

Right on half-time, Askey played a one-two with Cottiga, and although his first effort was blocked, he followed up emphatically to give Helsby a two-goal interval lead.

Despite Halton raising their game after the break, Helsby remained resolute.

Ten minutes into the second period, Helsby struck a decisive third, Askey's snapshot finding the bottom corner for his second of the match and 31st of a prolific season.

Skipper Carl Meharry raised the trophy amid jubilant scenes at the end, celebrations continuing long into the night at Helsby Sports Club.

Bridge Timber 0 DUK Brewer 2:

DUK Brewer are the R&DFA's Sunday Cup winners after a well-deserved win over Bridge Timber, who had triumphed in the last three fin a l s.

This final was played in great spirit with the referee Nick Vaughan, letting the game flow.

MoM Connor Taylor broke on the right and delivered a 39th-minute cross perfect cross for Towey to volley in from 12 yards.

Timber pressed in the first 10 minutes of the second half and might have got an equaliser.

DUK began to turn the screw and should have increased their lead.

Eight minutes from time, Taylor embarked on a run down the left and as he entered the box, he was upended.

Confident youngster Taylor took responsibility with the kick which he placed low into the right corner.

Matchball sponsors were Price Partnership Solicitors, Aintree.