NEWCASTLE manager John Goodridge was full of praise for his players despite his side going down 6-1 to Financial Watson Mid-Wales League (South) leaders Radnor Valley.

Newcastle took the lead after just 15minutes thanks to a superb 18 yard effort from Tom Price and came close to doubling their advantage when Craig Morris was just inches away from converting a cross inside the box.

The narrow miss gave the home side a wake-up call and Radnor upped the tempo, going close on a number of occasions, before deservedly drawing level.

Just minutes after the leveller a superbly struck free kick from Elliot Morris gave the home side the lead which they took into the half time break.

A five minute spell midway through the second half effectively took the game away from Newcastle with Radnor adding two more goals.

As the game wore on the home side added two additional goals to secure the win that puts them nine points clear at the top of the league.

"We more than played our part in a very entertaining game," said Goodridge.

"The final score flattered them slightly.”

Goodridge believes Radnor Valley will win the league.

"They are the best side that we have played this season and I hope they go on to secure the league title as they are a small village side like ourselves," he said.

This Saturday Newcastle are at home to Talgarth Town Reserves with a 2.30pm kick off and on Sunday play Hay St Mary Reserves in the Alf Sparey Cup.

Newcastle are he current holders of after beating Hay St Mary's 3-1 in last year’s final.

In Mercian (Regional) Football League Division 1, Bishop's Castle ended their league season with a 2-1 home defeat to AFC Wellington.

The loss sees Castle drop a place to 6th on goal difference, they are the first team to complete all 20 fixtures in their league this season.

Clee Hill United are through to the semi-finals of the First Division Cup after thrashing Brown Clee 5-1.

Ollie Smith grabbed three of Clee Hill's goals, with Liam Whitbread and Stevie Preece also on target.

Clee Hill will face Donnington Community Sports in the semi-finals on April 18.

In Hereford Times Herefordshire Football League Division 3, Orleton Colts Reserves saw a four game winning run come to an end with a 3-1 home defeat against Shobdon Reserves.

The loss puts a dent in Orleton Colts’ title aspirations, with the Colts trailing league leaders Dore Valley, who have completed their season, by six points with just two games remaining.