Workington Reds players went off for their Christmas party in York on Saturday night already in the right mood after another away win in the NPL North West.

The table leaders had an extra bonus after the 4-2 win at Ossett, as they were the only one of the other sides in the top six that was able to secure maximum points.

Manager Danny Grainger said: “We have a little run of games in December, which includes the three bottom sides, and we have targeted maximum points so it was good to start off with the right result.

“I thought that we controlled the game for long periods, although it was a concern when they pulled it back to 3-2.

“We could have gone 4-1 up right after half-time and Nathan [Waterston] knows he should have put that one away.

“But I was pleased with his overall performance.

“We got through that little spell after they scored and we came strong again.

“In some ways it was the icing on the cake when Brad [Carroll] came on and blasted home the fourth as he got half-an-hour just back from injury and was feeling his way back for a while.”

Grainger also had a word for Robbie Hebson who was brought back into the side because Dave Symington was unavailable.

“Robbie lost his place in the side after he missed a game with a cold but he’s been patient and waited for his chance,” added Grainger.

“I thought he did ever so well having a hand in all three of our first-half goals and that will have boosted him no end.”

As well as Symington, Reds were also without striker Ash Kelly and recent loanee Taylor Charters from Carlisle United.

Kelly damaged his knee in training during the week and there are concerns that he might be ruled out for the rest of the season.

Eighteen-year-old Charters was left in limbo and couldn’t play for either side after Carlisle had asked to take him back because of an injury crisis.

The NPL cancelled his registration with Reds but then the EFL said he couldn’t re-register for Carlisle because they had loaned him out for 28 days. Only goalkeepers are allowed to go back before their time.

Both clubs hope the matter can be sorted before tomorrow night when Reds entertain Mossley in the Integro League Cup, while Carlisle have an FA Cup replay against Forest Green.