FC Halifax Town: A day to remember for Town chairman Bosomworth

Bosomworth admitted the triumph was tinged with sadness at the club’s relegation, but puts Sunday’s Wembley success on the same pedestal as Town’s promotions under Neil Aspin.

“I hope everybody has got great pride in Halifax this week because any competition is hard earned and the boys have done tremendously well,” Bosomworth said.

“They’ve been relegated and they were hurting so there was a lot of personal pride and a lot of guys wanting to do well out there for themselves and for the club.

“It’s certainly one of the best days since I came to the club.

“Getting promotion at Brackley was very important, like all the promotions were.

“You can only progress if you’re getting promoted and getting momentum.

“Yes, we’ve taken a step back by getting relegated but we’ve created momentum by winning this.

“It’s bittersweet really.”

Bosomworth was in a state of shock when Scott McManus scored the winner just after half-time with a 25-yard right-foot shot.

“I was stunned really - it was with his wrong foot as well,” Bosomworth said.

“I think he was quite shocked as well.

“I was sad to see Scott go off with an injury but he’s done brilliantly for us.

“When I saw them walking out at the start my lips were quivering a bit I have to say.

“When the ball went in the back of the net it was just absolutely fantastic.

“You come here on a preparation day when it’s empty, and you’re looking round thinking ‘what’s it going to be like?’ but it’s certainly lived up to my expectations.

“It was a great atmosphere and the fans were tremendous.

“It’s a great feeling and who would have thought it?

“We didn’t really know what to expect. Obviously the lads have tasted relegation and been kicking their heels for three weeks.

“Grimsby have played three games in that time but perhaps they got their big achievement last week winning promotion.

“Relegation still hurts, I can’t hide that.

“But it’s a wonderful tournament to have won.

“We had a bit of luck with the draw but then we had a tricky replay at Gateshead, so we’ve been through the ringer to get here.”