On a thrilling Saturday afternoon, Helston Athletic kicked off their competitive season with a nail-biting 3-3 draw against Barnstaple Town Football Club.

The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round match took place in Barnstaple, setting the stage for the replay that took place at Helston yesterday evening at 7.45pm.

The triumphant team will take on Falmouth Town for the next FA Cup tie on August 17, following Falmouth's 5-0 victory on Saturday against Torpoint.

Athletic's match on Saturday unfolded with an intense beginning as both teams' goalkeepers staved off imminent goals within the first five minutes.

The first half witnessed multiple attempts from the hosts.

Helston's goalkeeper, Kyle Moore, proved himself with exceptional saves at 25 and 35 minutes.

Despite the pressure, Barnstaple found the net out of reach until the match turned in Helston's favour.

At 38 minutes, Reece Thomson unmarked on six yards out, turned Jordan Copp's pass into the opener.

A substitution took place just before half-time with Greg Eastman replacing Jordan Bentley.

Striker George Newton is brought down in the box, leading to a Helston penaltyStriker George Newton is brought down in the box, leading to a Helston penalty (Image: Piran Films)

In the second half, a penalty at 48 minutes witnessed George Newton being brought down, giving Jordan Copp a chance to extend the lead to two.

The game's dynamics shifted at 68 minutes when Barnstaple netted two rapid goals, levelling the score.

A tense situation developed at 78 minutes, when shortly after Barnstaple headed home from a corner, George Newton retaliated by heading home for Helston.

Newton only joined Athletic as a striker in June.

The 3-3 draw led to a rematch last night - Helston Athletic's first home fixture of the season.

This match was also be the inaugural game under the club's new LED floodlights.

In a nostalgic nod to tradition, the club announced the return of their matchday programme, promising fans with crucial match insights, interviews and statistics.

Thus, anticipation builds for the forthcoming replay, as supporters wait to see which team will secure their coveted spot against Falmouth Town.