FC Halifax Town secured a 3-2 victory over South Shields to advance to the first round of the competition at The Shay on Sunday. The home side took an early commanding lead, scoring three goals within the first 23 minutes, before South Shields mounted a late comeback.

Conor Carty opened the scoring for Halifax, converting a chance past South Shields goalkeeper Jasper Sheik to register his fifth goal of the season. The home team doubled their lead shortly after when Sheik blocked a header from Trusty following a free-kick by Cruz Allen, but Max Bardell was quickest to react and tapped in the rebound. Carty then added his second goal of the match three minutes later, capitalizing on defensive hesitation to fire a third goal beyond Sheik.

Halifax came close to extending their advantage further when Ben Tollitt’s shot struck the post, but South Shields began to rally soon after. Cedwyn Scott pulled a goal back in the 69th minute after a South Shields clearance failed to clear the ball, and moments later Toby Onanaye scored with a precise finish to make the score 3-2.

In the final stages, South Shields pressed for an equalizer. Scott and Sam Ashford both created chances, while Campbell saw a shot deflect over the bar as the visitors sought a late leveler. Despite their efforts, South Shields were unable to find a third goal, allowing Halifax to hold on for the win and progress in the tournament.