Dan Carter stars as Studley continue Hellenic League Division One title tilt with clinical victory over Malmesbury Victoria

DAN Carter’s hat-trick inspired Studley to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Malmesbury Victoria to continue their pursuit of the league crown.

Dale Edwards was also on target for the Bees who moved back to the top of the table on goal difference after title rivals Worcester Raiders suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to lowly Abingdon United.

Studley started on the front foot, forcing Adam Clatworthy to make two good saves in quick succession. However, the goal that looked likely arrived in the 34th minute when Edwards found the net from 16 yards out.

A minute later it was 2-0 when Brendon Bunn’s long clearance found Josh Westwood and his cross was volleyed home from 20 yards out by Carter.

Carter scored his and Studley’s third after 38 minutes, rising highest to head in from Sean Brains cross to give the visitors an unassailable lead at half-time.

Malmesbury made some slight changes at half-time, but never really troubled a solid Studley defence that was well marshalled by Ben Welsh and Ben Birch.

Carter then completed his hat-trick with a scrappy goal in the 55th minute to conclude the afternoon’s scoring.

The Bees entertain Worcester Raiders in a top-of-the-table clash on Saturday (3pm kick-off).