Stockton Town fell to defeat at their first step in the FA Trophy, losing to Warrington Rylands.
Nathan Harker was the hero throughout the first-half for Stockton, but early second-half goals helped the hosts through with a 3-1 win.
Ryan Barrett returned to the starting lineup after a dead leg kept him out of the win against Bamber Bridge, whilst new loanee Jacob Watson was named onto the bench.
Harker was called into action within the first 10 minutes, getting low to keep out an effort from Harrison Wood one-on-one.
After a few half-chances for Stockton, George Waring went very close to opening the scoring with a header from close range that somehow stayed out.
Stockton’s shot-stopper was needed again when a low strike was hit with power from the edge of the area by Ben Hardcastle, with Harker getting low quickly to push it wide.
The best save of the half came in the 33rd minute, when a ferocious volley from Harrison Wood was saved by the shoulder of Harker from point-blank range.
Stockton had their two biggest opportunities close to the halfway mark, first seeing Stephen Thompson’s weak header trickle into the goalkeepers gloves, and then Jake Petitjean’s good-looking strike blocked as it headed towards goal.
Half-time: Warrington Rylands 0-0 Stockton Town
Two minutes after the restart, the hosts were ahead when Calum Costello just managed to beat Nathan Harker from inside the box.
Nouble came close to an equaliser when he reacted quickest to a long-ball into the area, but his prod towards goal bounced back off the post.
Five minutes after that, Rylands caught Stockton on the break when Calum Costello was found in space on the edge of the area, and took his time to strike past Harker to double his sides advantage.
George Waring added a third not long after when his effort was deflected past Harker.
Owen Gallacher restored some life for the Anchors with a remarkable solo goal, driving from defence and taking on a number of defenders before firing into the corner.
But despite a bright spell towards the end, Stockton couldn’t force a comeback and exited the competition.
Full-time: Warrington Rylands 3-1 Stockton Town
Stockton now have a full focus on league action, with a trip to Hyde United next week.
