A THIRD minute goal was enough to see Bridgwater overcome a stubborn Hallen side at Fairfax Park on Saturday afternoon.

The importance of Graham Mercieca's early strike is reflected in the £4,500 prize money from FA Cup sponsors Eon, and an exciting draw in the third qualifying round.

In the opening stages, it all appeared to be going to form, after Mercieca's early strike, Bridgwater nearly doubled their lead, but a smart save from Hallen keeper Steve Scammell kept the ball out.

Western League Hallen came more into the game and their speedy strikers Runako Mowatt and David Amyinsah were a constant threat as the game became scrappy.

Amyinsah almost created an equalizer after he rounded the advancing Sam Hutchings in town's goal, but his shot was forced out for a corner by alert defending.

Following this scare, Hutchings redeemed himself by pulling off a great save low to his left from a powerful header by Mowatt.

Bridgwater were much better in the second half, Marcus Duharty finished a good run with an accurate cross to Chris Young who deftly glanced the ball just wide of the far post.

Nat Pepperell replaced Steve Orchard and immediately caused Hallen all sorts of problems. He had the measure of his full back and laid on a constant supply of right wing crosses, which unfortunately failed to find a converter.

Brett Trowbridge replaced Chris Young and came closest to doubling Town's lead with a shot, which flew just past the upright.

Bridgwater finished the game in complete control. Marcus Duharty finished off a superb move only to see his shot ruled out for being offside.

But being in complete control with just a 1-0 lead makes nervous watching for the home crowd. And the cheer at the final whistle was more of relief and anticipation of the third round draw.