CORNERSTONE United have won the Cotswold Churches League for the second time in three years after regaining the title from arch-rivals Cambray Baptist Church of Cheltenham.

Cornerstone, who draw most of their players from sister baptist churches in Chipping Campden and Shipston-on-Stour, were undefeated until the last game of the season when they lost 3-2 at Trinity and Quedgeley of Gloucester.

Up until then, the Evesham High Schoolbased side had won 18 games and drawn one with their 4-2 victory at Cambray proving the titledecider.

Cornerstone finished with a goal difference of 71.

This season, they were managed by James Berryman, following the death of his father Pete, who had proved an CRICKET inspirational manager since the team was set up six years ago.

Berryman said: “I was unsure how this season would go after losing dad last year.

“I didn’t know if the team would be able to keep together the good team spirit and attitude which had been built over the last five seasons.

“We love playing in the league and thank every team for being part of what has been a really enjoyable season.”

Berryman paid tribute to his brother Steve and cousins Paul Collier, the captain, and his sibling Andrew, who help run the team.

Cornerstone have evergreen ex-Cheltenham Town player Nick Jordan and his son Joe, who, along with striker John- Paul Lawrence, scored 19 goals each this season.

Berryman also praised improving 18-year-old Toby Robinson and the supporters for their fantastic backing.

On Saturday, Cornerstone meet holders Cambray in the league cup final at Pershore Town at 5.30pm.

Berryman added: “We look forward to the final and hope we can build upon the Cornerstone ethos set up by dad and carried on by the current team