A delighted Workington Reds boss Derek Townsley paid tribute to his 'terrific' team as they won a nail-biter at Blyth Spartans to book their play-off final berth.

Reds made a great start to the tie, leading 3-1 thanks to a hat-trick from goal hero Scott Allison.

But Blyth came back at their visitors to make it 3-3 with six minutes remaining.

Then up stepped Rob Wilson with only his second goal for club and he sealed the win for Reds much to the delight of the travelling faithful.

"All credit to the lads I'm running out of words to describe them," said Townsley. "They're a terrific bunch who deserve all the praise that comes their way.

"It was no more than I thought we deserved. Again I thought there was some strange decisions tonight. We just felt we were up against it, so obviously we are delighted with the outcome."
Townsley admitted to some nervy moments, adding: "Blyth had the momentum in the last few minutes but our lads pulled it out and then Rob, to his credit, was in the box at the right time.

"It capped off a brilliant display. We always say to the lads to have belief. Now we have got to keep going and let's go out with a bang rather than a whimper."

Allison's hat-trick brought his tally to the season up to 31 and Townsley had praise for his top scorer.

"He has that little bit of composure about him. He's cool when he gets through and he is who you want to be there in those situations," he added.

"But it would be unfair to single any one out, they have got their just rewards for what they put into the game.

"We know we're away from home in the final and it will be tough but for now we'll enjoy tonight."

Reds will travel to take on Salford City in the play-off final  on Saturday, after City beat Ashton United 3-1 after extra-time.