Pontefract Collieries booked their place in the Preliminary Round of the Emirates FA Cup thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Nathan Modest in the North East.
Despite Newcastle Benfield already having two league fixtures under their belts, it was the Colls who looked the brighter side early on – and took a deserved lead on 18 minutes. A deep corner from Jack Boyle was met by Danny Burns, whose header picked out debutant Charlie Clements at the back post to nod home smartly from close range.
The hosts responded quickly though, levelling from a set piece of their own. A short corner routine saw the ball whipped to the near post where Kyle Fryatt converted with a glancing finish.
Jimmy Williams’ side went back in front through another Boyle delivery. This time, it was Josh Burns with a towering header past the helpless ‘keeper, restoring the advantage before half time.
However, a controversial refereeing decision allowed Benfield to equalise for a second time. A misjudged throw in call and subsequent penalty – awarded after a clash of legs with Oli Metcalfe – saw Andre Bennett step up and convert from the spot.
The second half saw Ponte dominate possession but struggle to create many clear cut chances. The best opportunity fell to Frankie Sinfield, who fired narrowly wide after a slick move down the right found him in space at the back post.
As the clock ticked into injury time and with a replay looming, substitute Jack Wilson – making his first competitive appearance since October – made an impact. Racing in behind the defence, he cut inside and delivered a pinpoint cross for Nathan Modest to glance into the net, sparking wild celebrations up the far end.
A late free kick for the hosts could’ve spoiled the party, but Lloyd Allinson – marking his 100th appearance for the club – made a crucial save to ensure victory and safe passage to the next round.
Newcastle Benfield 2-3 Pontefract Collieries
Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
📅 Saturday 3rd August
👥 Attendance: 144
🎯 Player of the Match: Josh Burns – Dominant at the back and a threat in the box, capped off with a superb header.
👏 Shoutouts to debutant Charlie Clements and the returning Jack Wilson, who made a key contribution off the bench.
🆚 Next Up:
📍 Ingfield Stadium
⚽ Northern Premier League
🗓️ Saturday 10th August
🏠 Pontefract Collieries vs Newton Aycliffe
📆 FA Cup Preliminary Round: Pontefract Collieries vs Blyth Spartans (Date 16th August)