Steve Harding's second hat-trick in four days was the only notable feature in what was a one-sided affair.

Saturday's game saw Stansted bring a side which reflected their current struggling circumstances.

For 30 minutes though, Ramblers relied on early crosses, which seemed a disappointing approach and little paid dividend until on 23 minutes, Stevens got on the end of a Huttley corner for his 13th league goal of the season.

In the 37th minute, Harding at last showed his once renowned free-kick skills and curled in Burnham's second goal.

The second period was simply a matter of how many goals the home side could rattle up.

Reeves in the home goal was a total spectator, as he had been for much of the first half.

On 62 minutes, Harding scrambled home his second goal from a similar delivery.

Stevens then had a shot hit a post and in the 72nd minute, Harding completed his hat-trick from Herbert's excellent cross.

He should have had a fourth goal shortly after, the error bringing ironic jeers from the gallery of third teamers.

Burnham Ramblers: Reeves, Brant, Cousins, Arnold, Huttley, Francis, Wright, Fletcher, Stevens, Herbert and Harding. Substitutes: Harvey, Smith and Marchant (all used).

On Saturday Ramblers travel to play Concord Rangers and will be looking to finish in style - it is eight years since their last top three finish.

That they have come this far with such an unsettled midfield says a lot for Colin Wallinston's management, it has been far from easy.

A week today Burnham go to Maldon in the area final of the East Anglian Cup (7.45pm).

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.