GAVIN Carter scored a hat-trick as Holsworthy Reserves thrashed their Torridgeside counterparts 7-1 at Upcott Field on Saturday in the North Devon League Premier Division.

The Magpies led 3-0 at the break and although Marc Bettiss pulled one back soon after the restart, continued the onslaught in the second half to send the Donnacroft club, who have had a steady start themselves, home with plenty to think about.

Holsworthy’s other goals came via Niall Slade, Elijah Acton and Todd Peschke’s double.

It leaves Holsworthy fourth in the table with eight points from their opening six matches, and they will be confident of another win on Saturday when they entertain eighth-placed Shamwickshire Rovers.

Morwenstow had the afternoon off in the Senior Division, but Shebbear United continued their superb start by winning a five-goal thriller at Braunton Reserves.

Sheb had collected ten points from their opening four games, and added another three to their tally with the free-scoring Chris Wildern (2) and James Vanstone on target.

Morwenstow are in Cornwall Intermediate Cup action this Saturday as they head to St Ives Town, while Shebbear are in league action as they visit fellow unbeaten side Boca Seniors.

Bradworthy remain three points off the top in Intermediate One after edging a scarcely believable 12-goal classic at Equalizers.

William Jenkins and Brad Birch were both at the double for the Horniwinks who also netted via George Wellington, Callum Johns and Tudor Placinta.

Holsworthy Thirds and Morwenstow Reserves played out a 3-3 draw at Stanhope Park.

The Greens led 3-2 at the break thanks to Jacob Smith, Archie Taylor and Jacob Crooks, but Holsworthy’s Andrew Furse completed his hat-trick to earn a point.

Halwill were without a game in Devon and Exeter League Division Three, but are in Bill Slee Cup action on Saturday when they host Upottery Reserves (2.30pm).