MATT Button hit a hat-trick as Basingstoke Athletic sealed their place in the final of the Basingstoke B Cup with a 5-2 win over Preston Candover.

Dale Bristow had Athletic ahead after just 10 minutes, but Candover levelled before the break, Kye Buckland converting Joe Tomlinson’s corner.

Button scored twice to put Athletic in control, while Nathan Read missed a penalty that would have made it 4-1.

However, Candover’s reprieve did not last long, with Ryan Evans and Button’s hat-trick strike putting the result beyond any doubt.

Buckland’s second goal of the game, scored after Dan Trump’s shot was parried, provided little in the way of consolation for the visitors.

Herriard Sports also won through to the final, beating Basingstoke United 3-1.

Karl Buttle’s pass gave Martin Miles the chance to put Herriard ahead after 25 minutes, but United levelled almost immediately, Tom Hartley converting from the penalty spot.

Herriard were awarded a penalty of their own on 36 minutes, but United goalkeeper James Sallows saved Miles’ kick to ensure that there was nothing between the sides at the break.

Herriard player-manager Craig Lewington scored what proved to be the winner on 67 minutes, netting the rebound after Miles had hit the post, with Stuart Minton completing the scoring from a free-kick.

The cup final will take place at Winklebury on Saturday March 28.

Rising Sun DC are through to the semi-finals of the Peter Raynbird Cup as Hampshire Irons were unable to raise a team for their last-eight tie, which was due to be played on Saturday.