LOUIS Monaghan's first-half hat-trick proved decisive as Worcester Raiders maintained their unbeaten start to the new Hellenic League Premier season.

All five goals in the 3-2 win came in the opening 45 minutes, including a bicycle kick winner from Monaghan.

The three points mean Raiders move to just two points from second-placed Malvern Town, with a game in hand.

Karl Gormley's side have now played seven, won four and drawn three, whilst the rest of the league have played eight games.

On Tuesday night, Raiders' rivals Malvern also maintained their impressive league form with a statement win at the previously unbeaten Westfields.

Goals from Harry Clark and matt Turner gave the Hillsiders a 2-0 lead at the break.

Westfields pulled one back at the start of the second-half but a third goal from Adam Sauntson sealed the points for Malvern and saw them leapfrog Westfields into second place in the table.