Becky Langley retained faith with many of the players who brushed aside Blyth Town Ladies in the semi-final at Whitley Park back in November but it wasn't to be for the Lady Magpies, as Wallsend scored a goal in each half to take home the trophy.

Wallsend started the match the brighter of the two sides, forcing Keira Skelton and Jess Spark to make smart blocks to keep the score level.

And they were rewarded for their early pressure after just half an hour when a defensive mix-up for Newcastle saw the ball roll into the back of the net.

Langley's side looked for an instant response, but Sharna Wilkinson fired just over before Lois Greenslade fired in a dangerous cross that narrowly evaded Becky Ferguson.

On the stroke of half time, Grace Donnelly made a brilliant save to deny Eleanor Regan after the Wallsend striker had been released through on goal.

Moments later, Newcastle were almost level when Rosie Missen's header rebounded back off the crossbar before Lauren Robson curled a left-footed effort just wide of the post.

The Lady Magpies began the second period with much more urgency than the first, and Ferguson almost had the leveller, only for the striker to see her effort blocked.

Wallsend remained a threat on the break, and Donnelly again was forced into action, repelling another effort from Regan.

Despite Newcastle's efforts to find an equaliser, clear-cut chances were at a premium, and the opposition capitalise - Siobhan Jones hitting a fine strike into the top corner to double Wallsend's lead.

With just five minutes to play, Beth Guy came agonisingly close to halving the deficit, but the Lady Magpies' midfielder could only direct her header over the crossbar after a brilliant cross from Georgia Gibson.

Despite Newcastle's late push, Wallsend defended well and saw out the game, running out worthy winners.

For Langley and her side, attention now turns to Sunday's FA Women's National League Division One North clash against Liverpool Feds. The match at Druid Park will kick off at 2pm (BST).

Newcastle United Women: Grace Donnelly, Brooke Cochrane (c) (Ellen Packham 76), Jess Spark, Jane Harland (Olivia Watt 59), Keira Skelton, Sharna Wilkinson (Beth Guy 64), Rosie Missen, Lauren Robson, Lois Greenslade (Kacie Elson 59), Georgina Spraggon. Becky Ferguson (Georgia Gibson 64)

Subs not used: None

Report by Joseph Nelson

Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC