Oxford United are celebrating after becoming the inaugural winners of the Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge.
The npower League Two outfit saw off their rivals to land the spoils in the new competition, which ran alongside the main Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.
Oxford racked up 32 points in the unique test of accuracy for League 1 and League 2 clubs to run out clear winners.
Johnstone’s Paint Trophy winners Crewe Alexandra and Northern Area finalists Coventry City brought a conclusion to their memorable seasons in the tournament as they finished tied for second spot on 25 points.
The Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge saw clubs nominate 10 representatives from their playing squad and management to attempt to chip a ball from the angle of the penalty area into a giant inflatable paint pot placed on the six-yard line.
Ten points were awarded for a successful chip in to the paint pot and one point if the ball brushed the inflatable.
Oxford’s reward for finishing in top spot is £2,000 of Johnstone’s paint product.
Officials have elected to use their prize to carry out work on the concourses and new supporters bar at the Kassam Stadium to enhance the matchday experience, and to spruce up the changing rooms at the training ground.
Oxford chairman Ian Lenagan said: “This is a very timely win for the club.
“We are working hard to improve the matchday experience and have already been talking to supporters groups about adding a little colour to the concourses for next season.
“We can now sit down with them and work out the best way of doing so in conjunction with our nearby Johnstone’s Paint Decorating Centre who will advise us on the best products to use.”
Crewe and Coventry will each receive £750 to carry out work around their club.
Crewe will utilise their prize to paint the Gresty Road club shop in the special Railwaymen Red colour offered by Johnstone’s Paint, while Coventry plan to spruce up their Ryton training base.
“It’s been a fantastic first season for the Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge and many congratulations to Oxford for winning the competition and Crewe and Coventry for their very strong performances,” said Ben Wilde, Johnstone’s Paint Brand and Sponsorship Manager.
The challenge has also proved popular with both clubs and supporters, with the 10 YouTube videos on the official Johnstone’s Paint Trophy channel attracting almost 25,000 hits.
To watch the clubs in action, go to www.youtube.com/com/user/officialjpt.
Clubs will have the chance to emulate Oxford by becoming Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge champions for 2013-14, with the competition returning for a second season.