Paul Linger completed a memorable hat-trick as Thurrock warmed up for their Ryman Premier campaign with a comfortable win a Burroughs Park.
The first half was evenly contested with only a Cliff Akurang goal separating the two sides.
The ball fell kindly for the Thurrock player after cannoning off Dave Hudson in the home goal.
A raft of substations were made by both sides at half-time and Thurrock doubled their advantage after 50 minutes.
Ex-Rover Gary Howard's cross was met by Paul Linger and his explosive volley left Wakering keeper Dean Mahoney no chance.
The visitors made it 3-0 on the hour when the unfortunate Craig Dennis put Tresor Kendol's cross through his own goal.
Danny Greaves tapped home to make it 4-0 after Kendol outstretched the Rovers' rearguard to supply a perfect cross.
Greaves turned supplier on 84 minutes when his cross let Linger grab his second.
Ryman Division One North Wakering snatched a consolation when Dave Collins sidestepped a Thurrock defender to fire home.
But Linger completed the rout in the final minute when his solo effort earned him a hat-trick.
Published Monday, August 4, 2003
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