Mantack helps Alfreton take FA Cup scalp of Gateshead

Kallum Mantack

GEORGE Edmundson was refused permission to play in Alfreton's FA Cup fourth round qualifying replay at Gateshead last night, but fellow Athletic loan star Kallum Mantack was part of the side that recorded a 3-2 victory after extra time to earn a first-round tie at home to Newport County.

It was a particularly notable victory for Nicky Law's Vanarama National League North side, given that Gateshead operate in the league above them.

Mantack's Athletic colleague Jamie Stott has also made it into the first round with Curzon Ashton.

Stott played for the full game in the 2-1 home replay victory over York City that has landed the club a first-round tie at Westfields - the lowest-ranked side remaining in the competition.

Those sort of high-pressure ties will have been seen by Athletic's manager Stephen Robinson as very useful experiences for the two first-year professionals.

Edmundson - who has a recall clause built into his loan - may yet be needed by Athletic in the FA Cup, so was not rendered cup-tied.

Athletic winger Danny Byrnes has moved out to Ossett Albion on a one-month youth loan.

The winger, who has had a similar spell at Colwyn Bay this season, linked up with the Evo-Stik League side this week.

SEB Stockbridge will take charge of Athletic's home clash with Bristol Rovers on Saturday.
The County Durham official has refereed 14 games so far this season, issuing 62 yellow cards and three reds.

Stockbridge was in charge of Athletic's 0-0 draw at home to Northampton earlier this season, in which six Cobblers players were booked.