PETERSFIELD Town manager Ian Saunders was full of praise for his striker Oliver Bailey after his hat-trick fired the Rams to a 4-1 victory over Potters Bar Town on Wednesday night.

Saunders’ side recorded their 10th Southern League win of the season with this victory at Love Lane, which was played in appalling conditions.

The Rams boss believes that makes Bailey’s hat-trick even more special as it was difficult to maintain your footing on the sodden Love Lane turf.

“I’m really pleased with Olly and it was a well taken and well deserved hat-trick,” explained Saunders.

“He took all of his goals brilliantly and to score three on a night like that, where the rain kept on pouring down and the playing surface got more and more tricky to play on, really shows the quality he has.

“He has performed well for us since we signed him from Swindon Supermarine and I am pleased for him as the goals are the finishing touch to the performances he delivers for us.

“He works hard for the team and keeps trying to do what we ask of him – the hat-trick is a great reward for his efforts.”

Petersfield led 1-0 at the interval and although the visitors pulled a goal back at one stage, Joe Briggs completed the scoring to ensure the result was never in doubt.

Wednesday night’s game was the first at Love Lane since December 19 and like London buses, Petersfield will be keen that another game comes along immediately after their long home lay-off.

They will be hoping that happens on Saturday when Beaconsfield SYCOB are the visitors (3pm).

The Rams are edging closer to the 40 point target Saunders set his team at the beginning of the season to ensure they maintain their status as a step four club for next season.

Wednesday night’s win moved them up to 35 points and a win would edge the Rams closer to that target and the top half of the table.

Saunders added: “It will be a tough game against Beaconsfield as they beat us 5-0 at their place earlier in the season.

“But I will be looking for my players to build on their performance against Potters Bar – and if they can do that I’m sure we can pick up another three points.”