PLAYER-manager Martin Hu-sbands scored a hat-trick as Evesham defeated Cirencester 6-4 in their penultimate pre-season friendly.

The visitors took the lead after 10 minutes but Evesham responded when Stuart Bearcroft forced a short corner from which Matt Baumber equalised.

Evesham then conceded a soft goal after the defence missed several opportunities to clear the ball.

The hosts increased momentum and when Baumber's shot was illegally stopped on the line, Husbands levelled from the penalty spot.

However, Cirencester led 3-2 at the break following poor defending. The second-half was a marked improvement and saw Evesham score four goals.

Husbands got his second at the end of a superb passing move involving Stuart Harris, Baumber and Seb Seneque, before Steve Miller tapped in from close range following perseverance from Harris.

Despite being dominant, there was a lack of organisation and communication defensively, and the Vale side conceded a soft goal for 4-4.

Evesham continued to dominate and finished in style.

A 30-yard aerial pass from Baumber beat both defender and goalkeeper, allowing Husbands to volley his hat-trick.

Bearcroft added an outstanding individual goal after beating several defenders.

Goalkeeper Guy Cassey produced a flying save to keep the two-goal margin intact late on.

Evesham play their final pre-season game against Warwick on Saturday at Evesham High School (1.30pm).