West Cumbrian James Trafford was the hero as England won the under-21 European Championship last night.
Trafford, 20, produced a double save deep in time added on when Spain were awarded a last gasp penalty.
Spain captain Abel Ruiz had his 99th-minute penalty saved by Manchester City goalkeeper Trafford to preserve his record of not conceding a goal all tournament.
Trafford, a farmer’s son from Greysouthen, and a Workington Reds fan, was buried under a heap of celebrating team-mates at the final whistle.
Not only did he save Ruiz’ spot-kick but he had to block a team-mate’s follow-up shot and then watched as a third Spanish attempt flew over his bar.
It was England’s first win in the tournament since 1984 and was delivered courtesy of Curtis Jones’ deflection on Cole Palmer’s free-kick almost on half-time.
Lee Carsley’s men won all six games in Georgia and Romania and are also reigning European champions at under-19 level.
There was a hint of good fortune about the only goal as the ball struck Jones from Palmer’s free-kick and looped into the far corner.
Trafford, who is preparing for a £19 million move from City to Premier League newcomers Burnley, was the hero in the end, preventing 30 minutes of extra-time.
He blocked Ruiz’s spot-kick and also a follow-up effort from Aimar Oroz and then a third Spanish player drove the rebound over the top.
Trafford, who watches Reds when they play in Lancashire, had spent last season on loan to Bolton but is now poised for the big money move to Burnley.
