Ben Osborn broke a goalless dead‑lock in stoppage time as Stockport clinched a 1‑0 victory over Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium. A defensive lapse by the visitors handed the County side the edge, despite the pair being only two points apart in the league table. The win gives Stockport a valuable cushion ahead of the return leg.

The match resembled earlier play‑off ties that remained level after 90 minutes, but a slip by Stevenage substitute Benony Andresson set the stage for Osborn's opportunistic finish. Manager Dave Challinor called the strike "one of the ugliest goals" yet praised his side’s perseverance. Stevenage boss Alex Revell admitted the error was frustrating but insisted his team must respond in the second leg.

Former defender Luke Chambers described the goal as a "disastrous" moment that could prove decisive. Heading to Edgeley Park, Stockport enjoy the advantage of an away win and a supportive home crowd. Their next task is to preserve the lead and secure a place in the Wembley final.