NATHAN Minhas continued his sensational start to his Ascot United career by netting a hat-trick as the Yellamen came from a goal down at half-time to hammer Lydney Town 4-1 in the Hellenic League Premier Division on Saturday.

The young striker, signed from Maidenhead United, has now netted nine goals in five games.

Ascot, beaten 1-0 at Holmer Green in midweek, made a bright start at the Racecourse Ground with Jean-Claude Etienne having an effort blocked after just two minutes and then seeing another shot turned away for a corner.

Minhas saw his first attempt saved by Richard Thomas and it was against the run of play when the visitors took the lead through Lewis Thompson after the home defence had been caught out by a long ball.

The goal ruined keeper Lee Allen’s hopes of keeping a clean sheet on his 50th appearance for the club.

Five minutes after half-time, Minhas equalised with a long-range effort and in the 71st minute, he found the net again, the chance being set up by Etienne.

Minhas lost out to Thomas in a one-on-one situation, but made no mistake in the 80th minute to complete his hat-trick, following up after his first effort had rebounded off the post.

He then turned provider for substitute Harry Laflin to coolly add Ascot’s fourth in stoppage time.

Coach Aaron Steadman considered his team had “applied themselves well” to come back strongly in the second half, adding: “This is just another step forward for this new group.”

United, who were due to visit Ardley last night (Tuesday), are home to Wessex League side Horndean in the preliminary round of the FA Cup on Saturday (3pm).

Ascot’s Berks & Bucks Senior Cup first round tie against Thatcham Town will be played at the Racecourse Ground on Tuesday, September 25.