PANTEG'S poor record in the County Motors Cup continued on Saturday as they were dumped out of the competition with a late winner at Race. Paul Thomas' side looked to be cruising at 2-0 up after just 20 minutes, but a spirited comeback saw Race draw level before the break and then snatch victory at the death.

Youth player James Watkins had given Panteg the lead after the 16-year-old winger latched on to a ball over top and lobbed the keeper from 20 yards out. Making his debut for the first team, Watkins' performance was a highlight in an otherwise poor display - and he even turned out for the youth side on Sunday and netted again in their 5-2 win against New Inn.

Lee Gwilliam doubled Panteg's advantage with another chip, but almost immediately Race hit back in impressive fashion - a great shot form 30 yards which flew past Steve Gingell into the top corner.

Race then drew level on 35 minutes to leave the two sides level at half time, but the fluidity of the first half was lacking after the break and saw few chances for either side until Race were awarded a penalty with ten minutes to go.

However, Gingell pulled off an unlikely save to keep his side in it, only for Race to hit back with the sucker punch in injury time.

Manager Thomas said: "It was a good game, and all four goals in the first half were especially good, but we didn't play very well.

"The second half was a bit scrappy but after the penalty I thought that had been our let-off and if we could hold out until extra time we could have nicked it, but it wasn't to be."

Panteg's reserves crashed 5-1 at home to Clydach, Wayne Stirling bagging the hosts' only goal.

Coed Eva Athletic are scheduled to be the visitors to Panteg on Saturday, weather permitting.