The young Magpies, who won the competition last year, took the lead at Whitley Park through Mo Sedibeh, making his debut for United's second-string following his departure from Bradford City last summer, before Charlie McArthur's unfortunate own goal drew the visitors level.

Sedibeh regained the hosts' one-goal cushion in the second-half before quick-fire strikes from Alfie Harrison, introduced from the bench at the restart, and Josh Donaldson followed by Johnny Emerson's stoppage-time finish secured a semi-final berth for Diarmuid O'Carroll's side.

Harrison, who joined the Magpies from Manchester City in February 2024, told newcastleunited.com: "It was a good result and something to build on going into the next game.

"It showed the lads were doing something right to score a few goals. It would've been nice to not concede at all but it can be one of those things at times.

"This is a trophy we want to win. When there's something to play for, it adds that little bit more. We want to finish as high as we can in the league, too, and win as many games as possible."

The Keighley-born youngster, who made his full senior debut for Eddie Howe's side during a Sela Cup victory against Stade Brestois at St. James' Park in August, reflected positively on netting his maiden goal at under-21 level and is hopeful of adding to his goalscoring tally during the course of the 2024/25 campaign.

"When I came on, I just wanted to make an impact and add something to the game, which I managed to do.

"It's been a long time coming and I don't know how I haven't scored before that but hopefully there's more to come. I'm an attacking midfielder and I do like to create a lot. I've had a few assists but goals is something I need to keep adding."