St Neots continued their march towards the Midlands Division Four East (South) title with an eight-try blitz last Saturday.

The Hunts Post: Dan Court on the charge for St Neots against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHYDan Court on the charge for St Neots against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: Archant)

Joe Woodgate led the way with a hat-trick as the table-topping Saints powered to a 57-22 victory against Aylestone St James after recovering from a slow start to pile up the points.

They allowed the visitors to claim the opening try at The Common, but the response was both immediate and impressive as Finn Martin powered through the defence to mark his first-team debut in style.

It proved to be a memorable afternoon for the promising flanker who also earned the man-of-the-match accolade in his first outing for the club at senior level.

A pair of Joe Woodgate scores sandwiched a Dan Court touch-down as Saints took command before the break and they continued to go on the attack in the second period.

The Hunts Post: St Neots man Stefan Gallucci bursts forward against Aylestone St James as Dan Hill looks on. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHYSt Neots man Stefan Gallucci bursts forward against Aylestone St James as Dan Hill looks on. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: Archant)

Court crossed the line for the second time before Dan Hill darted through the smallest of gaps to add his name to the list of try-scorers.

A second Aylestone try did little to upset Saints’ rhythm as they continued to chase more points.

Aiden Jordan claimed a deserved score before Woodgate completed his hat-trick.

Lewis Hall was in fine form with the boot as he guided over five conversions and a penalty. Woodgate also kicked two conversions.

The Hunts Post: Kieran Rook races clear of an opponent as St Neots triumphed against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHYKieran Rook races clear of an opponent as St Neots triumphed against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: Archant)

Saints sit eight points clear at the summit with four matches remaining as they bid to capture the title at this level for the second time in four seasons.

The first of those fixtures is a home clash against Bedford Swifts on March 3.

The Hunts Post: St Neots man Ross Hubbard receives the attention of two opponents during their victory against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHYSt Neots man Ross Hubbard receives the attention of two opponents during their victory against Aylestone St James. Picture: J BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: Archant)