CONNOR Gately scored a hat-trick as Walshaw claimed their third Kenyon Cup in the last five years with a 5-3 win against Haslingden St Mary's.

The Manchester League Premier Division side looked comfortable on the Gigg Lane pitch after so many visits to the home of Bury FC in recent seasons.

And they probably should have won by a more convincing scoreline after cruising at times against the West Lancashire League side.

Walshaw's slick passing game saw them race into an early 2-0 lead.

Tino Blake put Gately through for his first of the evening.

The in-form striker then smashed home his second after good work from Rob Taylor.

Haslingden pulled a goal back just before the break, but a defensive error let in Walshaw's Danny McHugh early in the second half and he calmly rounded the keeper before finishing from a tight angle.

Walshaw captain Lee Chapman made it four after prodding home from close range following a corner.

And, shortly afterwards, Gateley completed a fine hat-trick with an emphatic finish.

Walshaw, watched by a 400-strong crowd, relaxed after going 5-1 up and Haslingden ran in two late consolation goals but the result was never really in doubt.