Hallam 4 AFC Blackpool 3: Kieran Watson hat trick helps Hallam reach FA Vase second round

Hat trick hero Kieran Watson goes up for a header. Photo: www.focussingonphotography.co.uk

The match was played behind closed doors at Sandygate due to the current coronavirus restrictions.

However, despite the lack of fans, there was no shortage of drama as Hallam led 4-2 after just 34 minutes.

The Sheffield club will now host County Durham side Shildon in the second round on Saturday.

Hallam broke the deadlock after just two minutes when Max Pemberton got the final touch following a corner but almost from the restart Connor Ikin headed home an equaliser for the North West Counties League side.

Watson scored his first goal on seven minutes after outsmarting the visiting goalkeeper and doubled his own tally from the spot after 15 minutes to put the home side firmly in the driving seat.

Adam Sumner’s freekick quickly reduced the deficit to 3-2 before the 20-minute mark.

But it became 4-2 after just 34 minutes when Watson completed his hat trick with a close range finish.

Hallam came close to extending their lead after the restart but were made to sweat after Jamie Thomas netted from the penalty spot for the visitors just after the hour mark.

The winners of this weekend’s second round tie have been drawn away to Stockton Town in the third round.

Hallam: Andrew, Royles, Birks, Bradbury, Salt, Pemberton, D Patterson, R Patterson, Wood, Watson, Deakin. Subs: Jones, Davies, Brownell, Wilson, Fairhurst.