ARGYLE'S Disability squad are officialy the best in the land.

The Pilgrims' Premiership side landed the top award at the 2008 National Finals in Manchester, defeating Sutton United 2-0 in the final.

Victory is a sign of the wonderful progress made by Disability manager Graham Eyles, his team of dedicated staff and volunteers, and, most importantly, a group of highly-committed young footballers.

After a controversial exit from the 2007 tournament when an appalling refereeing error robbed the Pilgrims of the chance to compete in the final stages, Argyle proved their quality, beating Sheffield United, Notts County and the mighty Chelsea on the way to the final.

Graham Eyles said: "I am incredibly proud of this magnificent achievement.

"It is testament to the professionalism and passion of my players, although none of this could have been achieved without the support of my staff, sponsors and Plymouth Argyle.

"We are now looking forward to next year and the chance to become the first club to take all three levels to the tournament, and also the first to successfully defend the Premiership title."

PREMIERSHIP CHAMPIONS: Steve Dobson, Gilson Sly, John Smith (Capt), Steve Bunker, Martyn Bovey, Jamie Poyntz, Alonso Marshall, Jason Eyles, Wayne Wills, Martin Sinclair, Darius Dlsoz.

Success was not limited to the Premiership side, as their colleagues from the Championship division enjoyed a fabulous run to the final.

A disappointing 2007 tournament where the Championship Pilgrims failed to win a game lowered expectations, but also clearly lifted determination levels.

Manchester Belle Vue, Northampton Town and Stoke City were among Argyle's victims before an agonising 1-0 defeat to Brighton in the Final.

CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNERS-UP: Kenneth Newman, Dean Dixon, Dale Robson, Dave Rowe, John Elkin, James Newman, Alex Blackley, Jason Trotter, Chay Halliday, Stephen Clarke, Jamie O'Reilly, Jason Perry.

Argyle chief executive Michael Dunford said: "We are very proud of this achievement.

"The Disability squad are a credit to themselves and a credit to Plymouth Argyle Football Club. Their enthusiasm is a fantastic model for us all to follow."

These thoughts were echoed by Argyle manager Paul Sturrock. "This is a wonderful achievement," he said.

"I want to pass on my congratulations to a group of dedicated and talented footballers."

GALLERY