3rd April 2011

Almost a year to the day that the Cumbrians suffered defeat at the hands of a similarly striped side, Greg Abbott’s men painted a far prettier picture for their fans.

And how fitting that Peter Murphy, the club’s longest serving player, should be the match winner in a 1-0 win.

The Dubliner went from zero to hero, atoning for his penalty misdemeanour in last season’s final to power home a delicious volley worthy of a striker.

His words in the official match programme rang true.

‘We definitely want revenge for last year – that’s what it’s all about. After my career has finished, it will be good to actually say I was a winner.’

The all important goal came after 12 minutes when a sustained period of Carlisle United pressure ended in a corner which the dangerous Francois Zoko got a head to.

Showing all the skill of a seasoned centre forward, Murphy composed himself and fired home.

He then rallied his troops and defended gallantly alongside central defensive partner Lubomir Michalik, repelling a resurgent Brentford after the half time break.

After Tom Taiwo failed to make the most of a decent opening shortly after the interval, the turning point of the game took place when Jeffrey Schlupp finally freed himself of the shackles of Michalik and smashed a close range effort against the base of the post.

If the Cumbrians thought that it was destined to be their day, they still had to work hard for it.

Brentford number seven Sam Saunders was a constant thorn in the side of United, while Leon Legge was narrowly off target with a header late in injury time.

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy sponsorship manager Teresa Hardwick said: “On behalf of everyone connected with Johnstone’s Paint, we’d like to congratulate Carlisle United’s players, staff and fans.

“They have given us all a lesson in getting back up, dusting themselves down and bouncing back.

“Carlisle United have embraced the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy from the moment their first game in the competition, right through to the final kick at Wembley Stadium.

“Their fans have made the long journey back to Wembley, have kept believing, and can enjoy a red letter day that they’ll remember forever.”