JOHNIE Gurney grabbed a hat-trick as Overton United opened 2018 in fine style with a 6-1 victory over visiting Hedge End Rangers.

The home side started well and took the lead after 12 minutes as Louis Chambers, chested and volleyed in from six yards.

It soon became 2-0 as Gurney latched onto a poor back pass to slot home.

Hedge End had a good 20 minute spell and made it 2-1.

The home side hit back before the break as a great work down the right from Kirk Smith saw a super ball into the box which Kieron Fuller finished.

After the break, Overton took control as Smith slotted home after some nice interplay.

On 75 minutes, a well taken free-kick by Alex Jupp found Gurney at the back post to head home.

In the dying minutes, tenacious work by Jupp saw the goalkeeper foul him and Overton were awarded their first penalty of the season, which Gurney converted for his hat-trick. Gurney was a well deserved man of the match and it was presented by Les Hayes, caretaker manager.

He is in charge after Carl Clayton and David Asker stood down and the committee would like to put on record they have been impressed by their commitment and professionalism in moving the club onwards and upwards. We wish them all the very best.

Anyone interested in the post of Overton manager should contact Gary Savory on 07917 425600.

On Saturday, Overton are at home to Liss and on Wednesday (7.45pm) they entertain Alresford.