Cestrians stunned as Alnwick claim scalp
ALNWICK Town earned a surprise first qualifying round victory at last season’s NERWFL Premier Division runners-up Durham Cestria.
Alisha Miller gave the Cestrians a firstminute lead, but 15 minutes later Kirstie Tang equalised with a looping free-kick.
An own goal by Bethany Wilson following a defensive mix-up gave Alnwick the lead a minute before the interval.
A rearguard second-half display saw the visitors withstand numerous attacks, defending resolutely from multiple corners and set-pieces as the Cestrians searched for the elusive equaliser.
Boro Rangers progressed to the next round after a comfortable 8-1 home win over Cramlington United.
The goals came from Larissa Burkinshaw (2), Rebecca Stephenson (2), Jade Featherstone, Alex Hodgson, Sophie Mitton and McCarthy.
Cramlington managed a consolation goal from Lucy McIntosh.
Wallsend BCL lost 5-1 at Penrith. Cyra Carne gave Wallsend an early lead but Penrith levelled shortly before the break, killing the Tynesiders off with four goals in the last 25 minutes.
Washington lost 4-2 at home to Hartlepool United, while Durham League One side Bishop Auckland won 2-1 at Carlisle United. The draw for the second qualifying round was made on Monday and gave Newcastle United an away tie at Barnsley, with Norton & Stockton Ancients visit Morecambe.
Chester-le-Street Town make the the trip to Sheffield to face Steel City Wanderers.
Hartlepool United visit National League Northern Division One side Bolton Wanderers, while NERWFL Northern Division Alnwick Town host National League Northern Division One Leeds United.
Boro Rangers travel to Tranmere Rovers, while Bishop Auckland host Stockport County and Redcar Town welcome Sheffield Wednesday. Ties to be played on Sunday, September 23.