Boyce's hard work delights FC Stratford boss Poulson

MANAGER Dave Poulson hailed Steve Boyce’s work-rate following his brilliant first-half hat-trick in FC Stratford’s thumping 5-0 victory against Castle Vale on Saturday.

The 18-year-old made it five goals in three games as Stratford overwhelmed their Birmingham visitors at the DCS Stadium.

“He just knows how to finish,” said a delighted Poulson.

“He’s very confident, works very hard for the team and has fitted in straight away. He’s getting goals which is great, but his work-rate is unbelievable.”

Stratford were 4-0 up within the opening 25 minutes thanks to Boyce’s treble and another from winger Freddy Murphy.

Castle Vale improved as the game went on, but substitute Jay Tilbury added a fifth late on for Stratford, who move up to seventh in the Midland League Division Three table.

This weekend, Stratford face one of their toughest tests of the season with a trip to runaway league leaders NKF Burbage.

Poulson, however, is in optimistic mood and feels his young side is more than capable of springing a surprise in Leicestershire.

He added: “I am quite optimistic going there. I know how many times we got behind them in our cup game against them (earlier this season).

“We go there with nothing to lose and I feel very positive about it.”