DEVOTED Wisbech Town fans roared their side to league cup victory yesterday as the Fenmen picked up their first silverware for 16 years.

The Fenmen’s loyal faithful travelled to Dereham Town’s Aldiss Park ground in their droves to cheer on their side against Wroxham in the Ridgeons League Challenge Cup Final.

At least two thirds of the 368 spectators at the ground cheered Steve Appleby’s side to success as a sea of red and white engulfed a small part of Norfolk for the afternoon.

Callum Reed’s first-half penalty was enough to clinch victory in a tense encounter and spark wild scenes of celebration at the final whistle.

Inspirational captain Paul Cousins admitted the club’s support - which has made Wisbech Town the best-supported Ridgeons Premier League team this season - helped his team-mates through a difficult second half.

Cousins said: “We could sense what it meant to the fans. They follow us every week in big numbers and they’ve been brilliant throughout the season.

“The fans helped us get through the second half. You could hear the lot behind the goal all game and it was such a boost. We knew with the strong wind that we were going to be under the cosh in the second half.

“This is my proudest day as a footballer. To win this with my home town team and lift that trophy was a brilliant feeling.”

Delighted Fenmen boss Appleby also praised the club’s support as he celebrated his first trophy as a manager.

Appleby said: “The win wasn’t about me, Chris Dear or Chas Thompson - it’s about Wisbech Town Football Club and our fans.

“When I was a player at the club the fans always showed their passion and they still do. They scream, shout and cheer and they do it in numbers as well. It was a great turnout.

“They’ve wanted success like this so much. I’m pleased we’ve won this to reward them with something.”