MARCUS Edwards made a winning return to the Rapid Solicitors Stadium this week as his Farsley side loosened his old club’s grip on the West Riding County Cup.

The targetman had been a major part of the Eagles’ success the season before and scored the winner against Harrogate Town in the final at Valley Parade to land the trophy.

Edwards is fondly remembered by everyone at his local club and, although he played a big role as Farsley ended any hope Eccleshill had of defending the trophy, scoring one and setting up two more in a 5-2 win, he will always be a hero to the supporters.

Eccleshill football chairman Adrian Benson said: “Marcus came through the ranks here and he always says this is his club.

“There is no doubt that he learned his craft here and was guided expertly by Mark Ellis, Ian Banks, Bobby Davison and Lee Duxbury. He definitely benefited from the coaching he got at this club.

“I think it’s fair to say that he wouldn’t have got that kind of coaching and experienced insight from many other clubs at our level. All of the first-team coaches we have had here were top players in their day and have top qualifications from the coaching world.

“Marcus’ form picked up dramatically when he worked under the guys that I have mentioned and I’m sure he will continue to flourish because Farsley have an excellent management and coaching team.”

Has Edwards blotted his copybook by being instrumental in Eccleshill losing their County Cup crown?

Benson believes that will never happen. He added: “Marcus is a great player but also a great lad and he will always get a warm welcome here.

“He comes to our home games when Farsley haven’t got a game and if he plays against us we will have a good get-together, whatever the result. He left this club on very good terms and Farsley’s is the first result we look for after ours because we want them to do well because of Marcus.”