Avenue & Pennant 1
Willesden Constantine 0
(Middx Cnty Lge Fed Cup Final)

THE A'S won their first trophy since re-forming in 2000 on Saturday with a narrow win over Willesden at Yeading FC's stadium.

On a poor playing surface, Avenue were the first to settle after a frantic and nervy start and were soon playing the better football.

Mohammed Khan was a constant threat down the right flank and his 24th minute corner was met with a thumping header from centre back Chris Parillion to give the A's a deserved lead.

Avenue should have been given the chance to double their advantage when striker Chris Theodule was pulled down in the box for what seemed like a certain penalty, but the referee waved play on. Willesden began the second period in more determined mood and Avenue, on the back of five games in 14 days, began to look tired.

But a defence marshalled superbly by centre-backs Parillon and Richards held firm to ensure the A's would return home with the cup.

Four days earlier Avenue travelled to London Tigers and recorded a 1-0 Middlesex Premier Division victory thanks to Darius Jacobs' goal.

Player/manager Mickey Leslie, meanwhile, is to stand down from the manager's position at the end of the season.

Leslie has decided that he needs to spend more time with his family but will still be involved in helping with training.

Avenue were in action last night (Wednesday) when they hosted Mauritius Sports Association and they travel to Neasden Foundation on Saturday for another league fixture.