Kieran Fenton scored with seconds of the first half remaining before Remaye Campbell benefitted from some poor defending to double the lead in the second period.

In a game largely dominated from start to finish, United had an early chance to go ahead when Rev James was clumsily tripped by Felix Annan but Jack Thomas’ spot-kick could only hit both posts before Jack Lewis’ follow-up was smothered by Annan.

Mason Frizelle then hacked Henri Wilder’s deep corner just wide of the post – possibly clipping the post on the way through – before Owen Betts, making just his second start of the season, dragged an effort from range just wide.

And as it looked like both teams would go in for the 15-minute interval level, another dangerous cross from Wilder was inch-perfect for the head of Fenton who nodded beyond Annan with the last action of the half.

Carlton rallied after the break but, despite looking lively on the front foot, couldn’t trouble Kieran Preston who remained untested throughout.

But the hosts were the cause of their own downfall when, just after the hour, some calamitous defending allowed United to add a second.

Pete Dearle’s hack at a dangerous James cross was high rather than out and as Annan looked to claim, an inexplicable fumble allowed Campbell to capitalise and pass into an empty net.

Academy duo Harry Goddard and Kye Wade were introduced late on, as was Micah Tomlin for his senior debut since arriving last month, but it remained as you were for the latter stages as United progressed into the final four of the competition.

Without a game on Saturday, we’re next in action when league leaders Radcliffe visit Greenwich Avenue on Tuesday night (7.45pm).

UNITED: Preston; Betts, Fenton (c), Frizelle, Wilder; Thomas, Lewis (Wade 78'), Barnes, James (Goddard 74'); Wafula (Tomlin 80'), Campbell
SUBS (not used): Ridgley, Tyson

ATT: 181

Match details

Match date

Wed 10 Jan 2024

Kickoff

19:45

Attendance

189

Competition

Nottinghamshire Senior Cup 23-24

Team overview