WEST LOTHIAN A LEAGUE: Sunday 24 September, 2017, Bankton Sports Complex, Livingston

Hat-tricks for Connor and Billy underpinned an impressive win as Bathgate continued their 100 per cent start to the 2017/18 campaign at Bankton. Murieston United Red, an ever-improving side, were swept aside by some scintillating football from the visitors.

Like the previous week, energy and hunger were key components of Thistle’s play. They took the lead through Gregor early on and never looked back. Billy’s deflected cross made it 2-0 before Connor struck to ensure a commanding half-time lead.

Bathgate wore their black away strip but performed as imperiously as they can in blue during the second half.

Having lost Craig to a nasty eye injury, Dylan and Gregor seized control of midfield along with Darren, Biddy and Keeto.

In defence, Matty, Sean, Ross and Leon looked assured and were also initiating attacks from deep.

Billy struck again after some superb link-up involving Ross, Matty and Gregor. Connor claimed his second goal after several incisive runs in behind the Murieston defence. From Matty’s pass, Keeto then made it 6-0 by positioning himself for a close-range finish.

A lapse in concentration allowed United to claim a consolation as the game entered its closing stages. However, Thistle responded with another two goals of their own. Billy slid Connor in for a low strike and then claimed his own treble by cheekily prodding a through ball beyond the goalkeeper.

One more effort from Murieston saw them score again, but the day belonged to the men in black.