Mick Sullivan hailed his Leatherhead heroes after the Tanners claimed the Isthmian League Cup with a heart-stopping penalty shootout win over Wealdstone on Wednesday night.

The 4-3 spot-kick win came after a 0-0 draw that saw the Stones reduced to nine men and Tommy Hutchings miss an extra-time penalty.

And, having seen his side claim their third win over Ryman Premier opposition thanks to Michael Corbett’s winning penalty, Sullivan lavished praise on his charges.

He said: “It is a fantastic achievement.

“We looked nervous and did not play our usual football but I cannot fault the effort in any way.

“I think over the 90 minutes we were much the better side and they acknowledged that.

“When they went down to ten men we pressed on but found it difficult to break them down.

“When they had another man sent off in extra time, only for Tommy to miss the penalty, I honestly thought it was going to be Wealdstone’s night.

“But we stuck at it and I am proud of each and every one of them.”

Sullivan will now turn his attention back to league matters, with Leatherhead’s dazzling recent form taking them to the cusp of the Ryman Division One South play-off places.

And with a home clash with Dulwich Hamlet looming, the Tanners boss has urged his side to keep their foot on the gas.

He added: “The last thing I want now is an after the Lord Mayor’s show type thing.

“We have put ourselves in a great position and if we failed to follow it up it would be very deflating.

“We have to keep this run going as fifth spot is definitely on.

“We have a great blend of youth and experience and we need to keep pushing.”

Leatherhead’s next three matches: Mar 27 Dulwich Hamlet (h), 30 Ramsgate (a), Apr 3 Ashford Town (a)