A HAT-TRICK for man of the match Nikki Palmer helped Ferndale U-16s to a hard and well-earned 9-7 victory against unbeaten Northampton Town.

Two goals each for Vicki Roberts, Sam Rogers and Nicole Allison kept the girls clear at the top of the Warwickshire league.

Their next match is a cup tie against Redditch Town.

The U14s returned to league action this week with a depleted squad of only nine players due to injury and school holidays.

However, they beat Redditch United for the second week running with a 7-3 victory.

Rebecca Meredith, Jenny Beasley and Tina Ridings were outstanding in defence.

Goal-scorers were Holly Penwarden (four), Kirsty Robson (two) and Toni Hipkins.