ORLETON Colts Reserves ran out 2-0 winners at home to Ludlow Town Colts in Division One of the Herefordshire County League.

But it came at a cost with midfield lynchpin Harry Stokes picking up ligament damage that looks set to end his season.

The home side opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half, Connor Davies-Austin putting the kick away.

And there was almost a second before the break but a lob from Sam Thomas was expertly saved by Kieron Roche in the Ludlow goal.

There was little to choose between the sides throughout but as the visitors pushed for an equaliser in the second half, Orleton caught them on the break with Nathan Hardisty adding his name to the scoresheet.

Winning manager Mark Hollis admitted it was a hard-fought win.

“It was a very even game throughout,” he said.

“The difference was we finished off the chances we created.

“For us, skipper Kyle Whitticase was excellent and really put in a captain’s performance.

“It’s disappointing to lose Harry who plays in that central defensive position in front of the back four.

"He has been to hospital where they confirmed it was ligament damage and said he was unlikely to play again this season.”

Orleton Colts Reserves are back in league action this Saturday when they head to Weston-under-Penyard.

Ludlow are without a game but may arrange a friendly with Woofferton whose game was postponed.

Orleton's first team, meanwhile, also had their game called off and will be hoping for a return to league action this weekend when they welcome Premier Division high-fliers Wellington Rangers to the Recreation Ground.