Goals from Dan Capewell and Dale Pearson gave Hallam a 2-0 loss at Sandygate.

Craig Denton made one change from his side’s 2-0 win at Sandygate against Bishop Auckland, with Charlie Staniland replacing Paulo Aguas. Also featuring was midfielder Brandon Bradbury, who made his 200th appearance for the club this afternoon.

And Dean Nicholson began with Leighton Hopper in his starting 11 – the Stan’s top goalscorer this season with 12.

Staniland was given a good opportunity early on in the game when a failed clearance found the midfielder on the edge. His shot was blocked but the Countrymen continued to attack, eventually winning a corner.

Brodie Litchfield had a good effort five minutes later when a long ball aimed at Danny South was headed clear, but Litchfield picked the ball up on the edge and fired just wide following a positive start camped in the opposition’s half.

For the rest of the half, the game evened out, with both sides trying to take control and little-to-no chances happening since the first 10 minutes.

Just after half-time, Heaton Stannington took the lead through captain Dan Capewell’s front post header from a corner.

Litchfield pulled a fine save out of Alfie Gordon in the Stan goal, with the goalkeeper brilliantly saving at his near post.

At the other end, Hugo Warhurst had his turn to pull off a wonderful save soon after when Konner Lamb was found at the back post, and Warhurst had to react quickly to keep it out. The save was parried straight back to Lamb, however, and, with Hugo scrambling to his feet, the forward fortunately pulled it wide.

Substitute Jay Glover had a good opportunity minutes after coming on, forcing Gordon down to his near post with his volley from the left side of the box.

But the Stan doubled their lead after 72 minutes, with Dale Pearson going in behind and coolly slotting home.

Hallam continued to fight for a way back into the game, but it wasn’t to be, losing 2-0.