Workington Reds moved comfortably into the fourth round of the Cumberland Cup with a 5-0 win at Whitehaven Amateurs.

The tie, played on Whitehaven’s 3G surface, was dominated by the Evo-Stik Premier League side who had scored seven in their earlier victory in the competition at Kirkoswald.

Manager Derek Townsley said: “It was a nice workout. We had the opportunity of giving game time to some of the lads who have been on the fringes for a while.

“We got through it with no serious injury alarms and played some tidy football, which is always good to see."

Despite facing lesser opposition, Reds’ boss Townsley was looking for a reaction to Saturday’s disappointing performance in the league when they crashed to a 4-1 defear at home to Salford City.

If Townsley had a complaint, it was that his side should have won by a bigger margin against the Wearside League side, having dominated possession, particularly in the first half when they had the wind behind them.

Goalkeeper Ian Studholme, who hails from Workington, made a series of outstanding saves in the first period but Reds were also wasteful with a number of good opportunities which were created.

They made the breakthrough with two goals in as many minutes. Midfielder Phil McLuckie headed in the first on 36 minutes and then clever play from former Man City youth player Kingsley Grandison earned him the second.

It was harder work in the second half, playing into the strong wind, but Workington were able to add to their lead with three more goals.

Scott Allison grabbed a brace in the 56th and 67th minutes, with Rob McCartney adding the fifth 10 minutes from the end. Two of the goals had been created by Grandison who enjoyed an eye-catching game.

But it will be a lot tougher on Saturday when Reds resume their league campaign at Frickley, knowing they are still in the play-off places despite the heavy defeat against Salford.

Also on the immediate horizon is a trip to Salford for the return game next Tuesday.