CUP kings Harrogate Railway are through to the final of the President's Cup after they finally ended Sheffield's five-year hold over them last night.

But with Railway and the cup, there was still the odd heart-stopping moments before they finally came through 3-1.

Danny Ames had given Rail the lead from a set free-kick ploy, only for Sheffield to equalise and then seemingly take the lead. However, the goal was chalked of for a foul after the referee had apparently awarded it.

Buoyed by this let off, the Railwaymen came out for the second half determined to finish the tie. The introduction of Andy Sunley, for the injured Steve Haddon, added some spark to the match with the talented teenager setting up Ames for the second before scoring the crucial third.

Railway now await the winners of next Tuesday's clash between Bridlington and Glapwell to see who they will face in the two-legged final.

Railway manager Paul Marshall, who will see his side face Bridlington on Saturday at Station View, said: "I would prefer for us to face Brid in the final. If we get Glapwell then we'd be favourites, but I'd rather we were the underdogs against Brid."

Hoping to follow Rail's lead will be Harrogate Town who face Bradford Park Avenue in the semi-final of the West Riding County FA Cup tonight at Wetherby Road (kick-off 7.45pm).

Reigning holders Town toppled favourites Halifax in the quarter-finals but they now face a side they have traditionally struggled against.

Boss John Reed will be without James McDaid and Stuart Elliott for the tie although skipper Robbie Whellans could start.

Updated: 10:55 Tuesday, March 11, 2003