WINSFORD Saxons’ stunning success on the pitch this season has surprised even their management team.

Chris Thomas, who picks the side along with co-boss Peter Hughes, told the Guardian that a haul of three trophies in their debut campaign is more than they had dreamed of.

“There has been a lot of partying going on lately,” he added.

“We knew we had a good squad with the quality to do well, but a treble wasn’t on the radar.

“It was around the turn of the year when we started to think it might be possible – that’s when we went on a run where everything just seemed to click.

“It’s beyond anything we ever imagined, and everybody is over the moon.”

Saxons lifted the Mid-Cheshire District FA Challenge Cup, beating three opponents from the Cheshire League, before securing the Crewe and District League.

Stephen Osborne’s goal in a 1-1 draw with Crewe FC reserves made sure they finished first ahead of Barnton Wanderers.

And if that was not enough, they added another trophy to the collection when Terry Cain’s hat-trick helped them past Winnington Avenue 1994 in the AJ Cooke Cup final.

Steven Hughes was on target too.

They completed their league campaign at Knights Grange last Saturday, when they lost to Barnton Wanderers.

“Nobody wantedthe season to end to be honest, everyone is chomping at the bit to get going again," said Thomas.

“But we’ll enjoy some time off before looking to be successful again next season.”

An application to join the Cheshire League has been mooted, although that remains a long-term goal.

Wins against holders Lostock Gralam, Rudheath Social and Cuddington in the district cup proves they can cope at a higher level.

“We’ll think about the Cheshire League when we get a bit more funding,” said Thomas.

“For now, we’ll stay where we are.

“We know already there are other club sniffing around our lads, so the first challenge for us is to keep the squad together.

“If we do that, then there’s no reason why we can’t defend our title next year.”