Northside clinched the first West Cumberland Sunday League title with a 2-1 win at their championship rivals Parkside.
It was a commendable effort by the side who had dominated the Workington Sunday League before its merger with the Egremont Sunday League.
They had Chad Grisdale, their young but inspirational midfielder, sent off after only four minutes.
Soon after that they took the lead through Tommy Whitehead but it looked ominous for them when Tom Mahone levelled for Parkside just before half-time.
But the Workington side dug in after the break and defended stoutly, resisting heavy Parkside pressure which never seriously tested their goal.
Then five minutes from the end Harry Watson grabbed the Northside winner to settle a hard-fought contest.
Jamie Moore, the Northside manager said: “Obviously it was a blow losing Chad early in the game to a straight red. By the letter of the law it was the right decision but it wasn’t malicious in any way.
“We had to battle hard and stick to a new game plan which we had to come up with on the spot.
“Our lads worked hard for each other and went into the trenches because they couldn’t break us down and didn’t get in any clear shots at goal to trouble us.
“I thought we full deserved the win and to win at the Celtic ground with 10 men to claim the League title was phenomenal for the lads and everyone involved.
“A huge support came to watch us and they were excellent and credit to Parkside, they are a great bunch of lads. Afterwards we all enjoyed food and a pint and friendly craic at the Parkside.”
In Division One Sun Inn still need a point from their last two games to be sure of the title but Butchers, whatever happens, will be promoted as well.
The Maryport side beat King’s Arms 6-2 with goals from Cieran Laverty (2), Jack Burns (2), Lewis Mattinson and an own goal.
Bluebell were 3-2 winners over Lowca in a tight fought Premier Division clash. Valter Fernandes, Luke Knowles and Macauley Sharp netted for the Workington side with Jamie Preston and Owen Woodburn netting for the Pirates.
A Leon Wharrier hat-trick gave Salterbeck a 3-2 win at Swan with the hosts replying through Matthew Little and Iestyn Hughes.
