HULLBRIDGE Sports claimed the Essex under-18 Pelly Cup for a second time when they beat hosts Billericay Town at New Lodge.

An "unbelievable" 30-yard striker from Joe Gardner clinched the final.

Alex Coghlan had given Hullbridge an 18th-minute lead, but Billericay equalised through Tom Newell.

But then came that glorious Gardiner strike which had Hullbridge boss John Fernandez purring: "It was an unbelievable effort, but John always scores brilliant goals. He isn't the most prolific scorer but when he does net they are always spectacular."

The game was played in front of a 283-strong crowd and Hullbridge still have more silverware to chase as they are in the Magnus Cup final.