Premier League clubs Newcastle United and Leeds United overcame lower division opposition to secure their places in the League Cup third round with victories on Wednesday.
Newcastle had to fight back from a goal down to beat fourth tier (League Two) Tranmere Rovers who had taken the lead through a 24th-minute Elliott Nevitt finish.
Jamaal Lascelles brought Eddie Howe’s side level with a close-range drive before the interval and New Zealand striker Chris Wood glanced in a superbly delivered corner from Kieran Trippier to secure a 2-1 win in the 52nd minute.
[ Newcastle set to spend record €70m for Swedish striker IsakOpens in new window ]
Leeds also had a scare before running out 3-1 winners over Yorkshire neighbours Barnsley.
Your complete guide to all the festive sporting action including TV details
Irish Times Sportswoman of the Year Awards: ‘The greatest collection of women in Irish sport in one place ever assembled’
Two-time Olympic champion Kellie Harrington named Irish Times/Sport Ireland Sportswoman of the Year 2024
Pub staff struggled to keep up with giddy Shamrock Rovers fans who enjoyed every moment of Chelsea trip
A Louis Sinisterra strike from 20 metres put Leeds on their way before Mateusz Klich doubled the advantage from the penalty spot.
A diving header from Mads Andersen gave Barnsley hope and they could have drawn level from the penalty spot but Callum Styles hit the post. Klich made sure of the win with a curling shot in the 56th minute.
Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion cruised to a 3-0 win at League One Forest Green Rovers while Championship (second tier) Bristol City won 3-1 at League One Wycombe Wanderers.
