Tamworth secured a stunning 5-3 win over Newcastle United Under-21s in their opening Group C fixture. The young Magpies conceded three times in the first half, with Tom McGlinchey's strike opening the scoring before Jake Hutchinson's brace extended Tamworth's advantage further. Trevan Sanusi's impressive finish on the stroke of half-time pulled a goal back for Newcastle's second-string before Vakhtang Salia, introduced from the restart, completed the visitors' terrific turnaround with a brace. However, Newcastle's youngsters left Staffordshire empty-handed as Daniel Creaney's header quickly restored Tamworth's lead before Vanylson Silva's late strike ensured maximum points for the National League outfit. Tamworth currently sit 16th in the National League, with 1 point from 2 games, and are 5 points behind leaders Harrogate Town in the title race. Their next fixture is against Sutton Utd on February 16, 2027.