Late goals from Paul Blackett and Martin Smith helped South Shields see off Northern League club Bishop Auckland to secure a place in the FA Cup third qualifying round.
There was little action in the opening 20 minutes as neither side really threatened to open the scoring but there were two chances as the midway point of the first half approached.
South Shields begin their involvement in this season’s Emirates FA Cup when they take on Bishop Auckland at 1st Cloud Arena on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
The clubs will meet for the first time since 2017 in the second qualifying round tie, with three divisions separating them heading into the clash.
South Shields made it five home wins from five with a 2-0 victory over Rushall Olympic in Vanarama National League North.
Aaron Martin’s early goal set the Mariners on their way at 1st Cloud Arena and a second half own goal made the points safe.
