The Magpies had fallen behind to Bolton Wanderers Ladies, but a spirited second-half showing saw them level through Jayden Maxwell, playing her last game before undergoing an operation on an ankle injury.

And in the dying seconds, Gray's free kick sparked jubilant scenes from Becky Langley and her players, who battled throughout in difficult conditions.

Bolton went in front after seven minutes. Maxwell nearly equalised three minutes later, while Beth Gardener came close with a free kick, but Newcastle were grateful to goalkeeper Dom Podzuite for three good saves before the break to keep her side in the game.

United began to up the ante in the second half and after a couple of opportunities went begging, Maxwell grabbed her second goal of the season with a close-range finish from Gardener's cross to equalise.

Then with seconds remaining, Gray's free kick proved too hot for the goalkeeper to handle, as United marched through to the next round.

Newcastle are back in league action on Tuesday night, when they entertain Chester le Street Town Ladies at Whitley Park (kick-off 7.45pm BST).

Newcastle United Women: Dom Podzuite, Brooke Cochrane, Ellen Packham, Courtney Lock, Megan McKenzie, Rhiannon Gray, Emily Tait (Brianna Westrup 46), Imogen Longcake, Jess Foster, Beth Gardener, Jayden Maxwell

Subs not used: Abbie Gilchrist, Jane Harland