Hale Leys romp into cup final at the expense of rivals Aston

With both local pride and a place in a cup final at stake, Hale Leys were on their game from the word go as strikers Tom Brindley and Nathan Graham caused problems with early efforts off target.

In front of a sizeable home crowd, Hale soon had the lead when Graham’s precise pass found Sean Coles who struck first blood for the Division Two leaders.

That was closely followed by a second with Brindley taking his incredibly tally for the season up to 40 goals, before new signing Mitchell Collins unleashed a sublime left-footed strike that put Hale into a 3-0 lead at half-time.

Aston briefly rallied at the start of the second half but United rarely looked troubled defensively and instead only extended their lead through a second from Coles, who converted from close-range.

Further efforts were either saved or off target but Hale were not to be denied a fifth goal as Niall Williams put the seal on a resounding victory.

Hale manager Paul Alleyne said afterwards: “We came here with one thing on our minds and that was reaching the final, however to deliver a performance like that, I am proud to be manager of such a quality side. I asked the question and the squad delivered.

“Man of the match was difficult one as they all put in good performances but it had to go to Mark Tattam who injected energy and link-up play in the middle for us.

“We have now made the Division Two Cup final and the boys got what they deserve having beaten Kent 7-0 and now Aston 5-0 – they are big statements of intent.

“Again thank you to all who came down to support the fixture as it was one of our biggest crowds of the season.”

Hale Leys will face Totternhoe in the SSML Division Two Cup final which will take place on Monday, March 28, at Leverstock Green.

All match day info will be displayed on the club website and anyone wishing to travel with the team should email [email protected].

It’s been to the league for Hale this weekend and a huge game against title rivals Kent Athletic.