Pontefract Collieries bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup at Craik Park after a spirited performance against higher league opposition Morpeth Town.
The day began with challenges for the Colls, who endured travel delays on the 117-mile journey north before arriving after 2pm, and then had their warm up disrupted by a sprinkler mishap that left players dodging unexpected soakings.
Despite the setbacks, Ponte started brightly, pressing their Northern Premier League Premier Division hosts and looking dangerous on the counter. But in the 21st minute, Morpeth pieced together a slick move down the left and a dangerous cross was glanced into the net.
Colls responded superbly within five minutes. Frankie Sinfield battled through a challenge and unleashed a stunning half volley that arrowed into the far corner, a strike fit to grace any FA Cup tie.
Morpeth finished the half strongly and thought they’d regained the lead, only to be denied by the offside flag. But just four minutes after the restart, they struck again, a clipped ball over the top finished smartly as Lloyd Allinson advanced off his line.
The hosts grew in confidence, dominating possession and moving Ponte around, though the Colls rallied in the final 25 minutes. Sinfield stung the palms of the keeper with another strike, and a goalmouth scramble went unrewarded. Controversy then struck when Ollie Russon appeared to be tripped as he shaped to shoot inside the box — only for strong Ponte appeals to be waved away.
Morpeth saw out the final stages to progress, but Colls could take pride in a valiant display, well backed by the travelling supporters.
Player of the Match: Bailey Thompson – tireless leading the line and never giving Morpeth’s defence a moment’s rest.
Attendance: 211
Next up for Pontefract is an FA Trophy tie at Ingfield Stadium against Lower Breck on Sunday, 7 September.