Warren Martin's Matrix outfit came from behind to steal the Barford Winter League title from reigning champions Browning Hotrods on Sunday.

While the visual highlights of this final match of a nerve tingling tournament was the depth of three-figure numbers on the weight cards, the real business of winning was achieved by all-round section performances by the Matrix men (Warren Martin, Rod Finch, Adam Playford, Jimmy Brooks and Nigel Swallow).

Their 17 penalty point score for the day's runner-up spot ensured their overall triumph over Hotrods by 121 points to 124, with Suffolk AD Gold third on 128.

Gary Kiddell (Biffin Bridge) set the tone with 158lb 4oz of carp from peg 15 on the Pleasure Lake.

League organiser and Sax team skipper Daniel Brydon came in with 125lb 15oz from peg 16 on the Willow, then Jimmy Brooks (Matrix) with 122lb 2oz from Willow 1, Dean Mason (Biffin Bridge) 116lb 4oz from Willow 3 and Simon Elliott (Suffolk AD Gold) with 109lb 3oz from Pleasure 7.

Team Barford filled top spot on the day with 15pp, but their late run of form was to no avail and they finished fifth on 132 points, behind Sax on 130.

The new champions' team boss Martin, who struggled for fish from a corner peg on the Willow, said he was delighted with the team's success.

'The league was organised superbly by Daniel Brydon, whilst hugely competitive and requiring skill with a never-say-die will to win points in poor sections.

'That's why Matrix have won this title,' he declared.

Brydon thanked the fishery boss Sarah Thomson for the use of the venue and for laying on post-match refreshments.

'What with the kind weather and so many teams in contention, it's been a great contest,' he declared.