Gainsborough stun National League Hartlepool to reach FA Cup first round

The Holy Blues came through Tuesday night's replay in remarkable fashion, having been denied a win late on during Saturday's initial fourth qualifying round tie.

Goals from Sisa Tuntulwana and a Fraser Preston brace either side of half-time saw Russ Wilcox's side into the next round of the competition, where they will host Football League side Accrington Stanley over the weekend of Saturday 1 November.

A fine individual effort from Tuntulwana set them on their way inside the opening quarter, with Preston doubling their lead five minutes before half-time.

Preston scored a stunning free-kick to make it three, and although the hosts pulled one back, it would prove to be a mere consolation.

"It's one of those days where you're lost for words," Wilcox admitted post-match.

"I was disappointed not to win on Saturday because I thought we were the better team, but to regroup, put in a performance like that and score three unbelievable goals - it's another great day for Gainsborough Trinity.

"When you come to a big, full-time club like this, I can't praise my players enough. Saturday's performance was really good, but tonight was even better.

"We showed everything tonight, quality with our play. Our defence tonight was incredible, bodies on the line.

"What a run we've had in the FA Cup, and let's hope it can continue."

Tuesday's result was a familiar one for a Gainsborough side that defeated National League opposition away from home in a fourth qualifying round replay last season.

Boston United were their victims during the 2024/25 campaign, falling to a surprise 4-0 defeat.

During that cup run, Gainsborough made it to the second round proper before falling to League Two Harrogate Town in front of the BBC cameras.

Up next for the Holy Blues is a home tie against an Accrington side currently sat 20th in League Two.

"It's great to get the home draw," Wilcox added.

"I didn't want to look at it too much because I knew we had a job to do here.

“It always is [an extra incentive]. To get a League Two team at our place, let's hopefully fill it out.”