CHRISTCHURCH gave their goal difference a major boost by recording an emphatic 11-1 victory over hapless Wessex One rivals Pewsey Vale on Wednesday.

Priory boss Ollie Cherrett had predicted a stern test for his team – and so it proved for the opening 30 minutes after Jake Force-Jones had headed the visitors into an early lead at Hurn Bridge.

However, after Cherries teenager Ash Pope, who has joined the club on work experience, had netted a stunning equaliser in the 34th minute, it was one-way traffic.

The first two goals of Andy Masson’s hat-trick saw Priory reach the interval leading 3-1 before the floodgates burst open in the second period.

Steve Rattue helped himself to a four-timer, while Masson, Pope, Grant Cormack and James King were also on target.

Pewsey’s cause was not helped when Force-Jones was carried off midway through the second half, leaving them with 10 men as they had already used their two available substitutes. Priory also had Dave Wrixton stretchered off following an accidental clash with Force-Jones.

Christchurch will be hoping to follow up the rout when they host Downton tomorrow, while in-form Ringwood entertain Hythe & Dibden. New Milton visit Totton & Eling tonight (8pm).

In Sydenhams Wessex Premier, Bashley host Fawley, Brockenhurst entertain Amesbury and Hamworthy United welcome Horndean. Poppies travel to Moneyfields, Verwood visit Newport and Lymington head to Fareham.