Somerset County League Division 1: Backwell Utd Res 0, Bishops Lydeard 4.

GRAHAM Mercieca hit a hat-trick as Bishops Lydeard maintained their dream start to the season, scoring four without reply at Backwell Reserves.

They were possibly flattered by the final margin of victory against a lively backwell side but rarely looked like conceding.

Lydeard got their noses in front after just five minutes when Gavin Step got to the by-line and crossed for Mercieca to score his first.

Mercieca doubled his and the team's tally after 20 minutes with an effort from close range.

The hosts, who had enjoyed a decent share of possession, found themselves three behind at the break when Sam Price Bates played in Trevor Jenkins who struck a fine shot into the far corner.

Backwell searched for a way back after the break but could not break through Lydeard's defence, which was superbly marshalled by Darren Knowling.

It was Lydeard who had the final word with 15 minutes left when Price-Bates cross was forced home at the second attempt by Mercieca for his hat-trick.

Lydeard, who are home to Burnham Utd Reserves tomorrow night (Wednesday), travel to play Worle on Saturday.