Finalists scalp seals award for Morecambe.
Morecambe have clinched the first Team of the Round award of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy - in the 10th year of sponsorship of the Football League Trophy - after claiming the scalp of last season’s finalists Walsall.
Second half strikes from Jamie Devitt and Tom Barkuizen helped Morecambe clinch the prize and sent them into the second round of the competition, where they will travel to Bury on Tuesday night.
Victory for Jim Bentley’s side was all the more impressive as not only did Walsall reach the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final in 2014-15, the Sky Bet League 1 team were also on a six match winning streak.
As well as a trophy to mark their team of the round performance, Morecambe have also been given a donation of Johnstone’s Paint to use on a club project which will be used to spruce up their community area.
Manager Bentley said: “It was a terrific performance and result and we are delighted we have been rewarded with the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy team of the round accolade.
“We know what a good side Walsall are but the lads were very disciplined and to get a clean sheet out of the game made it all the more pleasing.
“Hopefully we can use that result and performance to have a really strong run in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy this season.”
Morecambe were shortlisted for the prize along with their Sky Bet League 2 rivals Northampton Town and Plymouth Argyle.
Richard Mazurkiewicz, marketing manager of Johnstone’s Paint, said: “There were some excellent performances in the first round of the tenth Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and it was a tough decision for the judges to make.
“But when you consider the success Walsall had in the competition last season – plus the fact they play in a division higher than Morecambe and had won six straight matches before the tie – Jim Bentley’s side were certainly deserving winners.
“We congratulate Morecambe on their success and hope their supply of Johnstone’s Paint is well received.”
The nearest Johnstone’s Decorating Centre to Morecambe’s ground can be found on Westgate (LA3 3LN).
Johnstone’s Paint has been bringing colour to the beautiful game by sponsoring the Football League Trophy since 2006.