Corton 0 Bradenham Wanderers 4

MANAGER Les Tufts stepped in as a late replacement for his final game in charge – and scored a hat-trick as Bradenham ended their Division one campaign in style.

The 47-year-old scored twice in the first half and once after the break, having been forced to make the long trek to Corton with a depleted squad, after a number of players cried off at the last minute.

Tufts, a former Great Yarmouth Town striker, could have had more on his farewell appearance, but left with chairman Dale Brown's praise ringing in his ears.

'I've been trying to talk him into continuing playing for weeks,' said Brown. 'To be honest, he could have banged in a couple more if he'd wanted – he's the sort of player who keeps himself fit and it's a shame to lose him.

'He's been manager for the last two years, but just feels he is coming to the end of where he can take the lads,' said Brown.

'He intends to stay on as a committee member and offer his services in any way he can, which we appreciate.'

Tufts' first goal came on 14 minutes and the second after 32 to give the visitors a commanding 2-0 half-time lead.

Not satisfied with his first-half contribution, on 52 minutes he finished off some excellent approach play by Tom Spalding to round the home keeper and complete a fine hat-trick. On 62 minutes, Tom Spalding completed the scoring with a fine volley from 16 yards.

This was the cue for the rest of the veteran subs to 'have a run out'. The three points enabled Bradenham to finish in a respectable mid-table position.

Anyone interested in the managerial vacancy should call chairman Dale Brown on 01603 880109 or 07768 767376.