With the sides locked at 2-2 after a thrilling contest, and the tie seemingly heading for a penalty shootout, Ferguson latched onto a pass and fired the ball into the bottom corner, clinching Newcastle's progression to the next stage of the competition.

Following the fixture, the young forward expressed her desire to play a part for the Magpies in their inaugural third-tier campaign and continue her personal development too.

"I think I have developed a lot as a player over the year - both technically and physically," she said. "But my biggest growth has been my confidence.

"I hope to keep making an impact with however many minutes I am given in the future, and hope to continue to be a part of the team's success."

After joining United in 2021 from Sunderland Regional Talent Club, the pacy forward has been a regular in Becky Langley's first-team squad.

Developing a knack for coming off the bench and scoring vital goals, Ferguson hopes she can compete for a starting berth as the season progresses.

"Everyone desires to be a part of the starting XI," she explained. "Therefore there is constant competition, which only improves everyone's game.

"However it is still a privilege to be within the squad of 16, whether you are starting or not, so I will continue to work hard in training to be part of that 16.

"My aim this season is to utilise the full-time programme, to work on all areas of my game, ensuring I am constantly pushing to be part of the squad. I want to contribute to the team's ambitions this season."

Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock