Workington Reds goalkeeper Tom Fowler now has an important role to play following his midweek heroics, according to joint manager Lee Andrews.

The young shot-stopper was given the nod for Tuesday night’s League Cup match against Ramsbottom.

Reds eventually went on to win the tie 4-2 on penalties after the scores were level at 2-2 after 90 minutes.

And the management’s decision to pick Fowler paid off when he saved spot kicks from Josh Askew and Dean Stott to win the tie for his side.

Reds had led twice in the game through Joe McGee and Elliot Newby, but were pegged back both times by former Salford striker Gareth Seddon.

Former Stainburn School pupil, Fowler, has also played against Aspatria and Frizington in this season’s County Cup.

Andrews said: “Tom has had to be very patient with Aaran Taylor ahead of him. He did well and made a couple of good saves.

“He made some good decisions. It wasn’t just the penalties, he was good all round.

“He does add something to the squad. It’s frustrating for him as there’s only one position he plays in, but his attitude in training is brilliant.”

Reds’ management trio have called on several young players this season due to injuries, suspensions and work commitments.

Jamie Bethwaite, Calum Henderson and Robbie Hebson have all been brought in from the reserves set-up to play in the first team.

Fowler joined Reds in the summer and featured in six of their pre-season matches, appearing as a substitute in five of them.

Andrews added: “I think it’s good we’ve got young players if we need them. Robbie Hebson has also been patient and it’s been frustrating for him.

“People like Calum Henderson are very much part of the squad.

“We’ve got quite a small squad and we’re going to need these players.

“The County Cup and League Cup are two cups we earmarked for Tom to play in and he’ll probably play in the next round of them both.

“Aaran’s the number one in the league, but if anything happens we’ll put Tom in.”

Fowler is hoping to be in the frame when Reds play Clitheroe in the next round of the League Cup in January.

Their opponents in the quarter-finals of the County Cup will be announced today.

The Simply Reds draw for November was made this week. £500 - 578 - Joe Graham, Gt Clifton, £100 - 1171 - Audrey Tweddle, Ashfield, £75 - 900 - Derek Mellon, Cleator Moor, £50 - 248 - John Cowan, Westfield, £25 - 221 - Bill Doran, Workington. The £25 rollover went to 870, Brendan Mackie, of Egremont.

The overall rollover was not won and increases to £900 for December. The draw was witnessed by Colin O’Hare.