It’s been a remarkable finish to the Northern League season for Penrith, topped by a 3-1 home win over the new Division One champions Newton Aycliffe.
A week ago they had still been sweating over a possible relegation but two wins to finish off the campaign have actually carried them up to 14th in the table, six points clear of the drop zone.
Although Newton Aycliffe rested a few players, with the title already won, Penrith did the same as they still have the Fred Conway County Cup final to come on May 2 against Workington.
“It was a very good performance and was something we would not have able to do at the start of the season.
“I think the big task was persuading the players they were better than they had shown. Having a fight to stay up for three seasons led to a mentality that Penrith didn’t win many matches.
“Fortunately the penny seemed to drop in the New Year and player did realise they could play a bit, so results and performances have improved.
“In actual fact we could have finished even higher and been more comfortable coming up to the last week. We conceded a late equaliser at Northallerton and then threw away a 2-0 lead at Tow Law to lose 3-2 to late goals.
“But we have got there with some good contributions from young players, as well as some old heads and we can look forward to taking the club forward next season with the plans for refurbishment during the summer.
“I’d just like to thank the staff, the players, the volunteers and the fans, especially long time supporter Tommy Kirkland, for all they have done for the club this season.”
Penrith had taken an early lead with a goal from Luke Brown after six minutes and then Alfie Brunskill hit an absolute screamer to double the advantage.
The champions had the opportunity to reduce the arrears on 26 minutes with a penalty conceded by keeper Aaran Taylor but Liam Jarvie’s spot kick was saved.
Edmondson said: “To be fair to Aaran after giving away the penalty he made amends. He had done his homework having seen Jarvie’s last three penalties being hit straight down the middle so he didn’t move and saved it.
“Young Alfie’s goal was a beauty. If anyone saw Paul Mullin’s goal for Wrexham it was like that, just as good a strike.”
Penrith’s third came from the penalty spot from Luke Hunter after 31 minutes and although they brought on their more experienced players in the second-half the champions didn’t score until three minutes from time through Jarvie.
