Workington Reds were knocked out of the FA Youth Cup last night, beaten 5-2 at home by Whickham.
It was a disappointing result and performance from the young Reds who never produced the form they are capable of.
Whickham were worthy winners, with three or four of their side looking as though they might have a bright future in the game.
Their talented winger Albie McPate scored four goals with centre-forward Owen Kingsland converting a penalty for the other Whickham goal.
Reds, who were 3-0 down after 25 minutes netted second-half goals from Owen Johnston (penalty) and Luke Bewsher-Canon.
First team manager Mark Fell, meanwhile, will be looking for his first win since taking the reins at Borough Park when his side host Leek Town tomorrow.
It’s a reunion of old rivals as Leek were regular opponents when the pair were in NPL West together.
When Reds gained promotion two years ago Leek were beaten in the other semi-final by Runcorn Linnets but followed-up last season by winning the title comfortably to earn promotion.
They have started with a home defeat to Stockton Town and a 1-0 away win at Basford.
Reds, who were desperately close to a first League win in mid-week against Lancaster only to be denied by a last gasp offside goal had to settle for a point.
Fell will have to make changes because of unavailability but encouraged by the lively second-half display is looking for that first win.
Two of the county’s Northern League sides are involved in FA Cup action – with Workington coming into the competition for the first time at Monday’s draw.
Penrith, who have started the season in great form, will be looking to follow up Tuesday’s fine 5-2 win over Newcastle Benfield with progress in the FA Cup as they entertain Crook Town.
It does prompt the question of whether Kendal Town boss Jimmy Marshall has had a word with opposite number Darren Edmondson at Penrith!
The reason – the Mintcakes host Newcastle Benfield tomorrow in the FA Cup and any inside information from Edmo about the opposition would be well received.
In the Wearside League Windscale were disappointed to have Wednesday’s home game with Bishop Auckland Reserves postponed because the north east side couldn’t raise a team.
They had wanted to get back on the horse after a 4-1 defeat at home to South Moor on Saturday ended a four-match winning start to the season which had taken them top of the League.
Tomorrow they travel to Gateshead Leam Rangers intent on picking-up the winning thread.
In the West Lancanshire League Cleator Moor Celtic picked up their first point in mid-week when they drew 1-1 at Milnthrope Corinthians.
New signing Owen Woodburn came up with the equaliser in the 88th minute after the hosts had grabbed the lead four minutes earlier.
Tomorrow they are at home to Burscough Richmond who have won twice and lost once in three games so far – all played at home.
Whitehaven are also at home tomorrow against Hurst Green, who are four places behind them with two points less from a game more.
