Ben Kearney grabs another treble as Brymbo reach NEWFA Challenge Cup quarter-finals

Brymbo 5 (Kearney 3, Cumming, New)
Saltney Town 3 (Johnson 2, Barratt)
NEWFA Challenge Cup round two

Ben Kearney made it two hat-tricks in three days as Brymbo became the first team to reach the quarter-finals of the NEWFA Challenge Cup with a thrilling victory over Saltney at The Crick on Bank Holiday Monday.

Kearney had been the hero on Saturday after his three goals helped the Steelmen to a stunning 5-2 triumph against previously unbeaten Welsh National League Premier Division leaders Queen’s Park.

And the striker was on fire again in Monday’s second round all-Premier cup battle.

Brymbo took the lead on 18 minutes when following a quick break Jamie Cumming finished smartly on the run.

Two minutes later a fine header from Billy New made it 2-0 to the hosts.

Saltney were far from out of it and just before the interval Warren Kelly set up Paul Johnson to volley home.

The tie was all but over as a contest after Brymbo scored twice within the first 10 minutes of the second half.

Kearney firstly netted from the spot and soon after made it 4-1 from open play.

Johnson pulled another back for the Bordermen, but Kearney completed back-to-back trebles with an audacious chip.

Town did manage a wonderful consolation through Ryan Barratt, who twisted and turned in the box before nicely tucking the ball away.

Rest of the second round draw (dates and kick-off times subject to change)

Buckley Town v Corwen (Sep 4, 7.30 pm)
Castell Alun Colts v Ruthin Town (to be confirmed)
Cefn Druids (holders) v Caerwys (Sep 4, 7.45 pm)
Flint Town United v Mynydd Isa Spartans (TBC)
Holywell Town v Gresford Athletic (Sep 3)
Mold Alexandra v Coedpoeth United (Sep 3)
Plas Madoc v Brickfield Rangers (TBC)