Albion Sports reached the semi-finals of the FA Umbro Sunday Cup for the first time with a dramatic 1-0 away win over Birmingham side Edwards Celtic yesterday.

Pavan Singh was their match-winner, firing home an 80th-minute goal after being pushed up front for the final 20 minutes of the game.

Albion are only the second Bradford Sunday Alliance side to reach the last four - Oakenshaw were the first - and their manager Kulwinder Singh was full of admiration for his men at the end of a tight battle.

"There weren't many chances in the game but we kept battling and Pavan took his opportunity superbly," said Singh.

"This is a very proud moment for us as a club. It has to be a great achievement reaching the semi-finals of a national competition," he added.

Goalkeeper John Hawkes again made some crucial saves but midfield man Jason Ryan was his team's outstanding player with a tireless performance.

Albion officials were eagerly awaiting the outcome of today's draw for the semi-finals and regretting the fact they turned down the invitation to be at Lancaster Gate.

Singh added: "We felt it was wrong to accept before we even knew if we were going to get through. It's a long trek to London anyway but I now think I might have liked to have put up with that journey just to share in the occasion."

Albion have already won £300 prize money and could go on to win £1,200 if they eventually lift the trophy.

The semi-finals will be played on March 19. For both of the ties the team drawn first will have the advantage of the Football Association choosing a neutral ground nearer to their home.

Albion were well supported at Birmingham and would like the chance of even greater backing for the next round.

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