The Anvils won their first cup in 13 years thanks to a Kayn Cranston last minute winner against Caledonian Braves at a rocking Raydale.
Despite being behind twice in the final, the Gretna team rallied back and showed their character to write their way into the club’s historybooks.
After the match, Parker said the cup success is one of the best feelings he’s ever had in his long playing and managerial career.
He said: “It’s been 13 years since Gretna last won a trophy. These guys have made memories tonight and created a wee bit of history.
“They’ve been brilliant and managed to turn the fortunes of the club around and bring some pride for the community.
“I’ve won loads of things in my playing and managerial career but this is unbelievable. I actually feel a little bit emotional. I’m so happy.
“Myself and my assistant Kev Somerville have won stuff before but for some reason this feels different. It’s special.
“The whole team was in Portugal for five days in the build-up to this game. It probably wasn’t the best preparation for a cup final but we showed our character and togetherness. We have a team of warriors and we have a lot of heart in the changing room.
“We knew it was going to be tough against Caledonian Braves and we knew if it did go to extra time we could be in bother.
“But Kayn is such a talent and his finish was worthy to win any cup.
“He’s unique, he’s going to be massive for us going forward, Kayn has won us that cup.”
And the gaffer also praised the club’s committee, volunteers and noisy supporters.
Parker added: “I’m so happy for the likes of Nikki White, the Gretna committee and volunteers. The people at this club put an abundance of effort in and I’m chuffed for them.
“The Raydale Ultras are special. The banter we’ve all had this season has been brilliant. It’s class they were here in their numbers and I hope we can keep growing that.”
