NELSON'S Worthington Trophy hopes sank in the mud of Victoria Park against NWCL first division side Newcastle Town.

The Blues looked the better side in the early stages and deservedly took the lead after 17 minutes through an Andy Haworth header.

Newcastle however, soon hit back with a goal by Andy Bott after 26 minutes and Nelson had to settle for a 1-1 scoreline at half time despite their enterprising play.

John Bailey's side made a dream start to the second half when Lee Coldridge was brought down by a late tackle inside the visitors' penalty area and Andy Howarth converted the spot kick to restore Nelson's lead at 2-1 after 46 minutes.

Although Nelson tried to build on their lead, the worsening conditions seemed to favour the visitors who grew stronger and forced an equaliser after 75 minutes when Ian Banks found the top corner of the net with a 35 yard lob.

Four minutes later Newcastle took the lead when a misplaced throw from the Nelson keeper gave Banks the opportunity to grab his second goal with a low angled shot.

With the visitors in the ascendancy it was no surprise when Andy Bott ran clear and added his second and Newcastle's fourth goal after 85 minutes to complete the scoring.

NELSON...2

NEWCASTLE TOWN...4