Jovon Makama netted a hat-trick in a comfortable home win for Norwich City against Walsall in the FA Cup third round.
Matej Jurasek’s opener was followed by Makama’s treble and a late Tony Springett goal as Norwich, currently third from bottom of the Championship, proved far too strong for their League Two opponents.
Czech winger Jurasek’s powerful left-footed drive from just inside the box was his first goal for the Norfolk club.
Makama made it 2-0 inside 25 minutes, turning home the rebound after Walsall centre-back Aden Flint had stopped Jack Stacey’s effort on the line.
The Canaries had numerous chances to extend their lead before half-time and any chance of an unlikely Walsall comeback was wiped out as Makama completed his hat-trick with two smart finishes early in the second period.
Saddlers substitute Courtney Clarke curled in an outstanding reply from 25 yards for the visitors, whose main objective for the remainder of the campaign will be to convert their current League Two placing of third into promotion.
Springett collected Liam Gibbs’ pass to add the hosts’ fifth in stoppage time.
Makama was a constant threat during his hour on the field, taking his tally of goals for the season to 12 and coming close on four other occasions.
He has been in exceptional scoring form since Philippe Clement’s arrival at Carrow Road, finding the net nine times in the 11 appearances he has made since the former Rangers boss succeeded Liam Manning in November.
This was the second hat-trick of Makama’s career, following on from a treble for his previous club Lincoln in a 5-0 League One win against Bristol Rovers in March 2025.
His impressive display helped to confirm the end of Walsall’s run in this competition, although the Saddlers still have a chance of cup glory this season.
Their next fixture is a last-16 tie against Northampton in the Vertu Trophy on Wednesday.
