DANNY Craig praised the character of his Barnoldswick Town players after they clinched their place in the Macron Cup final.

Three second-half goals in the semi-final second leg at Bootle last Thursday saw them recover from 2-0 down to win the game 3-2.

It gave them a 4-2 aggregate triumph and came just 48 hours after they had been thrashed 6-1 in the Hallmark Security League Premier Division against the same opponents on the same ground.

Craig said: "The second half display was unbelievable. After conceding an early goal and then letting in a sloppy one just before half-time, it would have been easy for the lads to fear the worst after the defeat on Tuesday.

"It says much for them that they didn't cave in. The Bootle fans were reminding them of Tuesday's game, but they didn't let it worry them.

"The second half display was unbelievable. Zack Dale hit a stunning volley to put us level on aggregate and two minutes later Mark Threlfall put us ahead with a fine goal.

"Bootle had to chase the game and that led to the poor back pass which enabled Mark Threlfall to rob the keeper of the ball and slot it into the empty net.

"It was great to reach the final by winning both legs. That is really pleasing for all of us."

Town will learn tonight who they will meet in the final at Fleetwood Town on May 16. Chadderton have a 2-0 lead from the away leg when they take on fellow Division One side City of Liverpool.

Although they will be facing lower division opponents, Craig is determined that his side approach the match with a full focus.

"We will find out as much about out opponents as possible and develop our game plan. My big concern is that the final is two weeks after the end of the regular season. That is a long break and is due to Fleetwood being in the League One play-offs.

"We have a great opportunity to bring some silverware to the club and if we can do that it will be a reward for all those people who do so much for the club."