IAN Woan hailed his comeback kids as 'magnificent' as Town claimed the Youth Alliance Cup in dramatic fashion at Burnley last night.

A last-gasp goal from Ashan Holgate took the Turf Moor tie into extra-time with the Wiltshire visitors eventually triumphing 5-3 in a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw.

Sixteen-year-old defender Gary Pryde stroked home the decisive kick with goalkeeper Matty Bulman both scoring and saving in the spot-kick drama.

Woan, an FA Cup finalist with Nottingham Forest in 1991, said Town's triumph surpassed that day at Wembley and he was almost choking with pride.

He said: "It was tremendous, what character and such desire not to get beaten. The lads were just magnificent.

"What a season it's been, really enjoyable."

Perhaps Town's success should not have come as a surprise judging by Woan's record in spot-kick scenarios.

He said: "I've been in seven penalty shoot-outs during my career and I haven't lost one. Still, it's about them. They've gone out there and given absolutely everything.

"I'm just buzzing. A lot of them aren't old enough to have a drink to celebrate. I might have to celebrate for them."

Several of those taking part last night were more than likely to remember their game as their Town 'farewell'. Not all the third years will be offered professional deals by the club in the summer.

Woan said: "Some of the lads have been here for 10 years, if they do have to go then what a way to finish. I'm so proud of them."

As for the penalties, Woan said there had been no shortage of volunteers.

He said: "Bully the keeper was straight in there. He wanted to take the first one. You can't knock that sort of confidence. He's got a great strike.

"Gary Pryde knocked in the last one and then it was time to celebrate."