Pontefract Collieries v Blyth Spartans | Saturday, 16 August 2025 - 15:00 | FA Cup

Blyth Spartans were left frustrated once again as a late goal condemned them to defeat in the Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round, with Pontefract Collieries advancing courtesy of an 85th-minute strike from Nathan Modest.

The hosts came into the tie in strong form, sitting fifth in the Northern Premier League East with four points from their opening two matches. Spartans, meanwhile, were looking to bounce back after a difficult start to the campaign, which included an opening-day defeat to Redcar Athletic and a stoppage-time loss at Consett.

Spartans started brightly in Yorkshire and could have taken an early lead when Benji Shodeinde cut inside on his right foot inside five minutes, only to fire over the bar.

The first half proved a tight contest with few clear openings. Goalkeeper Callum Dobson was called into action for the visitors, producing two top-drawer saves around the half-hour mark to keep the Colls at bay. At the other end, Shodeinde continued to threaten, only to be denied by a last-ditch challenge as he bore down on goal, while a series of half-chances went begging in and around the Pontefract box.

Half time: Pontefract Collieries 0-0 Blyth Spartans

After the interval, Blyth created their best opportunity of the afternoon. Ten minutes into the second half, Shodeinde burst to the byline and fizzed a dangerous cross across the goalmouth. A scramble followed with multiple Spartans efforts blocked before the Colls goalkeeper eventually smothered the ball to safety.

With the tie seemingly heading for a replay, Pontefract struck late. An attack down the right saw Dobson make a fine initial save, but the loose ball fell kindly to Modest, who bundled home from close range to give the hosts the lead on 85 minutes.

Blyth pushed for a late equaliser and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when Jack Chapman rose highest to meet a set-piece only for his header to skim past the right-hand post.

Pontefract held firm to book their place in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup, while Spartans were left to reflect on another late setback despite a spirited display.

Full time: Pontefract Collieries 1-0 Blyth Spartans

Pontefract Collieries -

Goals - Nathan Modest 85'

Referee - Dominic Jackson