DUDLEY United Ladies boss Andy Mulligan has confirmed he is staying at the club after guiding them to West Midlands Division One South title.

Mulligan’s side clinched the crown with a dramatic 2-1 win over title rivals Coventry City last Thursday.

It completed a fantastic first season in charge for the former Villa Ladies boss, in which United also reached the second round of the FA Cup and had good runs in both regional cup competitions.

Mulligan believes they can be even better next season and challenge for promotion from the West Midlands Premier Division.

He said: “It was great to finally get over the line.

“I came in at the start of the season with promotion the aim. We have achieved what we set out to do.

“I have confirmed I will be carrying on next season and I’m confident we will do well again.

“With three or four quality additions there is no reason we can’t go for another promotion.”

United certainly earned their reputation as the division’s entertainers, scoring an incredible 90 goals in just 20 league matches.

In the end just two were required to beat Coventry but it was a nervy encounter, as United knew defeat could see the visitors pip them to the title.

Liz Smart gave Dudley the perfect start with an early lead but when Coventry equalised with 20 minutes to go, the game was in the balance.

In the end 16-year-old Alice Belcher was United’s hero, as she converted following a counter attack to seal the win.

Mulligan said: “We did things the hard way though I felt 2-1 flattered them.

“Our players were revved up beforehand and we were all over them for the first half.

“But when they pulled level there were a few nervy moments.

“Fair play to their manager, he came up to me at the end and said the best team won.”

United are looking for a first team coach for next season while they are also hoping to set up a reserve side.

Pre-season training begins on Thursday June 24, while the club are keen to build their sponsorship for next season.

Anyone interested in coaching, sponsoring or playing for the club should contact Mulligan on 07961 046299 for more information.