BOSS Simon Browne watched three-goal Ryan Murray fire Hamworthy United to victory and then joked: “It was one of the worst hat-tricks ever.”

Delighted Browne was in buoyant mood after watching the Hammers record a thumping 5-2 away triumph over struggling Alton Town last night.

Stefan Penny and Joe Shovelton were both on target for the victors but Murray stole the headlines with two penalties and a close-range finish.

Manager Browne told the Daily Echo: “It was one of the worst hat-tricks ever - a goalmouth scramble and two penalties!

“We played really well and deserve a lot of credit.”

Browne also paid a glowing tribute to opponents Alton for managing to stage the game.

The Premier Division clash was the only fixture to beat the weather in the Wessex League last night.

Browne added: “I think as much credit as any should go to the Alton chairman and the helpers there for getting the game on.

“I really appreciate what they did on Tuesday.”

The victory, Hamworthy's ninth in 24 league games this term, lifted the County Ground outfit into the top 10.

Hammers: Knights, Ayling, Horlock, Walker, Hester, Carlile (Pekun, 75), Penny (Perry, 85), Wyatt, Murray, Shovelton, Bradley (Lanahan, 55). Unused sub: Chudy.