DARWEN came within an ace of pulling off one of the biggest shocks in the history of the Lancashire ATS Challenge Trophy last night against Nationwide Conference outfit Morecambe at Victory Park.

On a night of high drama, the North West Trains League Second Division minnows twice took the lead in normal time before the Shrimps fought back to force extra time and finally triumphed 4-2 in a nailbiting penalty shootout.

Player boss Steve Wilkes couldn't hide his heartache but still described the experience as one of the proudest moments of his life.

"I'm absolutely gutted.

"But I couldn't have asked for any more from the lads - they were absolutely tremendous.

"I just went into the dressing room after the match and told the players how proud I was of every single one of them.

"We're still unbeaten in this cup this season because they only beat us one penalties.

"The lads have been credit to everyone connected with Darwen Football Club."

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