NEWPORT County AFC have received a boost ahead of tonight's Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area semi-final against Peterborough United at Rodney Parade after striker Conor Washington became the latest Ultimate Finish winner.

The 21-year-old was on target twice in the Exiles' 3-0 southern section quarter-final triumph over Portsmouth last month, with his second goal of the night earning the award.

Washington claimed a 45 per cent share of the hundreds of votes received as he saw off fellow nominees Wycombe Wanderers’ Matt McClure, Leyton Orient’s David Mooney and Andy Monkhouse and Antoni Sarcevic of Hartlepool United and Fleetwood Town respectively.

Laura Tebby was selected at random from the people who voted for Washington’s strike and wins an iPod Shuffle.

“I was pleased with the goal and delighted to receive so many votes in the Ultimate Finish award,” said Washington.

“There didn’t seem too much on when I got the ball but I cut across the box and the space opened up. It was nice to add a third goal late on and put the tie beyond doubt.”

Washington joins Bristol City’s Joe Brayn and Patrick Agyemang of Portsmouth in claiming the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Ultimate Finish awards this season.

Ben Wilde, brand and sponsorship manager for Johnstone’s Paint said: “It was another good batch of goals for supporters to choose from and Conor is a worthy winner.

“He showed good strength and technique for his goal and it helped keep Newport County on the road to Wembley.”

Washington’s award means he takes his place in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Ultimate Finish of the Season competition, which will be released following the final at Wembley on Sunday March 30.