Boss Dave Hewson praised some of his young Workington Reds stars who came back to beat Cleator Moor Celtic in the Cumberland Cup last night.

Reds were deadlocked at 1-1 with Celtic at the end of the first half after seeing a penalty saved and it was the visitors who were looking bright.

But after a half-time talk, Reds came back out to score a further four goals and the holders moved into the semi-finals of the competition.

Hewson said: "I thought we started brightly, got the goal and then a penalty but credit to their keeper for a great save.

"If that had gone in, it could have been a different story but they came back, got a goal and looked a threat.

"In the first half, we were a little lacklustre and lethargic. But we spoke to them at half time and said we had to up the tempo.

"And, in the second half, we were the more dominant team and we got the result at the end of the day.

"We asked for a reaction and we certainly got that."

Youngster Sam Joel ended with a brace and there were further goals from Sam Smith, Nathan Waterston and Conor Tinnion.

The only downside to the night was a nasty injury to Anthony Wright who looks set to miss the next few games.

"It looks like he has sprained his ankle and it doesn't look good," admitted Hewson.

"He went up for a good header but, as he came down, it was soft underfoot and he rolled his ankle.

"It already has a lot of swelling, so that could take several weeks to heal and get right.

"It's a real shame as he was just getting back to form and I thought he played well on Saturday and again tonight."

Hewson also had praise for youngster Lamin Cham who made his debut for the side after impressing in the reserves and did not look out of place.

"I thought he was superb for the full 90 minutes and he looks a big prospect for the future," added Hewson.

Reds are back in league action on Saturday when they travel to Stafford Rangers.