STEVE Devlin continued his blistering start to life at Hamworthy United after bagging a hat-trick in a 4-1 Wessex Premier victory over Bournemouth Poppies.

The former Poole Town midfielder netted the opener at the County Ground before going on to strike twice from the penalty spot.

Bailey Rowe was also on target for Tim Sills’s side, Poppies found the net through Jack Voisey.

Victory took Hammers three points clear at the summit after fellow title-chasers Lymington suffered their first league loss of the season.

Lymo were beaten 3-0 at home against Bashley, with the visitors’ goals coming through Cameron Beard (2) and Harry McGrath.

Defeat meant the hosts slipped to third in the table, while Bashley are in 10th spot.

Elsewhere in the division, Adam Grange’s goal moved Brockenhurst up to 14th in the table after a 1-0 home victory over Hamble club.

Christchurch’s home game with AFC Stoneham was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Hurn Bridge.

In Wessex One, New Milton Town were beaten 4-0 by United Services Portsmouth as their struggles in the league continued.

The scheduled clash between Verwood Town and Ringwood Town was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Potterne Park.