A blistering second half turnaround saw Hallam progress to the second qualifying round of the FA Cup with a 3-2 win away at Newcastle Blue Star.

Three goals from corners, including two headers from captain Danny South, sent the Countrymen through after being 2-0 down at the interval.

The hosts started brightly, and raced into an early lead when Connor Oliver fired into the corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Set pieces were to be the order of the day for both sides, and Blue Star took advantage and extended the lead almost straight away as Sean Reid emphatically thumped home his header from a corner.

And the home side continued to pile pressure on, as some strong last ditch defending was required to keep out Oliver.

Leon Howarth came closest for Hallam in the first half when his low shot went just wide of the far post.

In need of a response, the Countrymen came out much stronger after the interval, and won a penalty within 5 minutes of the restart when Howarth was felled by Bada.

But Danny Buttle’s spot kick was turned round the post by goalkeeper Lister.

However despite the miss looking like a big setback, Hallam found an instant response.

Bradbury’s corner being met by the head of Danny South, who powered a header into the top corner.

This gave the superb travelling Hallam supporters hope, and their faithfulness was rewarded almost straight away.

A corner from the right side finding the head of South, with a change of side for the set piece not changing the outcome – emphatically headed home to level the scores.

Hallam then had shouts for a penalty as a handball claim close to the line was waved away by the officials, who gave a free kick the other way.

Bradbury then had an effort of his own go close, before Suleiman’s audacious effort went wide.

Rio Allen came close when he couldn’t quite get on the end of Howarth’s low cross.

But the crowning moment was to come from yet another set piece.

Calum Ward glancing home a header from 6 yards to complete the turnaround, sparking wild celebrations in front of the Hallam support behind the goal.

As expected, the Countrymen had to dig deep, and were indebted to two blocks on the line to preserve the lead as Blue Star searched for a late equaliser.

But Craig Denton’s side held on for a memorable win, and go into Monday’s draw for the second qualifying round for the first time since 2006.

Joe, Hallam FC Media

Photos curtesy of – Jon Moses Photography.

Please check out his Instagram @j.o.m.o.photography