Historic Quarter-Final Spot Secured
Stockport County claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Harrogate Town on January 13, 2026, with Josh Stokes scoring the decisive goal in the 90th minute. The win secured Stockport’s place in the EFL Trophy quarter-finals for the first time since 2007, marking a significant milestone for the club currently pushing for promotion from League One.
The match, held at Edgeley Park in front of 4,442 spectators, proved to be a tense affair. The first half ended goalless, but Harrogate broke the deadlock in the 49th minute through Tom Cursons. Despite trailing, Stockport fought back to level the score before Stokes sealed the victory in stoppage time.
Tale of Two Contrasting Seasons
Stockport currently sit fourth in the League One table, just six points off the automatic promotion places, and this cup run provides additional momentum. Meanwhile, Harrogate are 43 places below Stockport, currently second bottom in League Two having failed to pick up a win in their last 15 league games.
Despite their league struggles, The Sulphurites had won all four EFL Trophy matches before this defeat, beating clubs including Mansfield Town and Newcastle United Under-21s. This cup run had offered brief respite from their relegation battle.
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Stockport, this victory continues their impressive season across all competitions. The Hatters boast a strong home record this season, suffering just four defeats at Edgeley Park across all competitions. The cup run now offers them a realistic chance at silverware alongside their promotion ambitions.
For Harrogate, attention must now return fully to their survival fight in League Two. Despite the cup disappointment, the experience gained and players returning from injury could prove valuable in their remaining league fixtures as they battle to avoid dropping into the National League.
