ASCOT United manager Neil Richards was full of praise for his players after seeing them hammer Ringwood 6-0 in the FA Cup on Saturday, writes Dave Wright.

His newly-assembled team had lost 2-0 at Bracknell in their opening Hellenic League game last Tuesday, but they bounced back in tremendous style against their Wessex League Division One hosts.

“I was very pleased with the reaction of the players after the disappointment of the Bracknell defeat,” said Richards.

“While the scoreline was emphatic, I know from experience that these games against unknown opposition can be dangerous.

“So I was really pleased with the attitude of the team and the way they got the job done.”

One of his new signings, Rob Lazarczuk, from Windsor, netted a hat-trick, the first two goals coming from the penalty spot, with Josh Dillon, Victor Abreu and Samir Regragui also on target.

Richards has had to make several new signings and his side went into the season last week short of match practice compared to their rivals.

“We have brought some experience and additional quality into the squad and have a committed and hungry group of players,” said Richards.

“I think it will take around a month for the players to settle down completely, but we are very optimistic about the season.”

Richards revealed that he and coach Jamie Tompkins have “set some tough targets for ourselves and the players.”

Ascot are away to Abingdon United this Saturday (3pm) and the following week visit Hamworthy United of the Wessex League Premier Division in the preliminary round of the FA Cup.