CRICKLADE Town enjoyed a thumping victory in the Wiltshire Senior League as they thrashed Ludgershall Sports 9-1 to move level on points with leaders Shrewton United.

Ben Carter bagged a hat-trick while substitute John Rees weighed in with four goals to add to David Coleman and Giorgio Wrona’s solitary efforts.

The convincing win moves Luke Alford’s side level on points with Shrewton, Marlborough Town and Wroughton, who occupy the top three spots with only goal difference separating them.

“It was our best performance of the season. Everyone was on their game,” said manager Alford.

“It’s taken a little while but everyone has started to gel. It’s been slowly getting there and it’s all clicked.

“Hopefully, we can keep playing on like that until the end of the season and we can be amongst it.”

Next up for Alford’s side is a home game against Trowbridge Town, with the Cricklade boss hoping for a competitive match.

Alford also revealed the club are beginning to take steps towards preparation for a potential promotion to the Hellenic League.

“It’s something I’ve had a few meetings about with the FA. The next thing is to speak to the league and put a planning application in.

“We need to need to keep up with everyone else. They all have lights and they are progressing. We don’t want to get stuck behind the times.”

Shrewton recorded their 12th win of the season with a 3-1 away win over Beversbrook, whose only goal came from Darren Mobey.

Wroughton also showed no signs of slowing down as they hit double figures at home to Bromham in a 10-1 win at the Weir Field, leaving them in third place.

Despite being top of the pack at the start of the day’s play, Marlborough could only get a point at home to Royal Wotton Bassett Town Reserves.

Devan Bryan bagged 28th strike of the season to put the hosts a goal to the good at the halfway stage but in the second half, the visitors were able to cancel out Craig Simmons’ effort with two goals of their own to claim a 2-2 draw.

Meanwhile, Trowbridge and Corsham Town Reserves both had successful away days as they claimed 2-1 wins over Devizes Town Reserves and Malmesbury Victoria Development.

Pewsey Vale Development's s search for a win continues after a 6-1 loss to Melksham Town Reserves.