Ringer claim takes shine off cup victory for Bilbrook

However, the shine was taken off the trophy success amid claims the village club on the outskirts of Wolverhampton had fielded a 'ringer' – a semi-professional player who usually turns out for AFC Telford United.

Defender Darren Campion is at the centre of the row after it appeared he turned out for Bilbrook under someone else's name.

Opponents Newport Town FC are now lodging an official complaint with the West Midlands Regional League after claiming Campion, aged 28, who this week signed a new deal with Telford, is said to have turned out against them on Saturday at Gornal Athletic's Garden Walk stadium.

Campion, a former Hednesford Town player well-known on the non-league circuit, played a key role in Telford's great escape from relegation in the National League North this season.

Shropshire-based Newport, whose ground is just a few miles from Telford's Bucks Head stadium had romped away with the league and were hot favourites for the final before mid-table Bilbrook lifted the trophy after a 3-2 win.

The West Midlands League confirmed an investigation would begin as soon as officials receive Newport's formal complaint.

A spokesman for Newport Town said after the game: "Several spectators recognised him before the game and when they waved over and shouted his name, he waved back. It was obvious they knew they had been caught.

"Watching them take the trophy onto the pitch, celebrating – it was just disappointing.

"We have had such a good season and it is a real shame it has ended like this – it just ruined the day."

A statement released by Newport added: "We can confirm that a full investigation will commence into the allegations that Bilbrook FC did in fact field an ineligible player against Newport Town FC in the final of the WMRL Div 2 League Cup Final. Darren Campion, who is attached to AFC Telford United, is not a registered player for Bilbrook and they have played him under a different name. Newport Town FC were very disappointed that the cup was made a mockery of."

Campion plays for the Bucks on non-contract terms and though manager Rob Smith is expected to speak to the defender regarding the incident, he will not face any formal sanction.

Neither the player or Bilbrook manager Ash Cook responded to requests to comment.