NEWCASTLE'S reputation for youth development has received a further boost after a teenage squad secured a shock National Cup victory.

The 'B' team that played Kent side Dartford last Sunday had an average age of 17, and only one player over the age of 20.

But Newcastle triumphed 3-1 to set up a derby game in the second round ... against the Newcastle 'A' team.

The side included 14-year-old Chris Ashton and 15-year-olds Alex Liebeck and Sam Shenton, who are all in the latest England under-16s squad, along with fellow Newcastle players Stuart Ross and James Goodwin.

Meanwhile, Newcastle's Rupert Scott, Rashad Ali and Roman Neveykin are all in the England under-19 squad for a training camp this weekend.

Their progress continues an excellent year for Newcastle's youth players, who excelled in the UK School Games, held in South Wales.

Neveykin, Scott, Goodwin, Ali, Will Roberts and Dan Williams were in the England Boys Central team, which won gold by beating Scotland West in the final.

The England Boys North team, which finished third, featured Newcastle members Ashton, Liebeck, Shenton, Gareth Thomas and Sam Tompkinson.

Meanwhile, Newcastle's Lucy Preston and Ruth Gurgul played for the England Girls Central team.

Newcastle's first team had a day to forget last weekend as they lost 3-0 at home to title challengers London Malory Eagles.

However, Newcastle chairman Colin Roberts said he was delighted with the progress of the club's youngsters.

He said: "I am very proud to see the progress made by so many of our players.

"It is thanks to their hard work, the support of their parents and the work their coaches put in.

"Within the sport, North Staffordshire is truly regarded as a hotbed of excellence for junior volleyball."