A Daniel Bennett hat-trick pushed Canberra FC to the top of the Canberra National Premier League table as the defending premier made light work of an opponent for a third straight week.
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Canberra FC ground its way through the opening hour before scoring three times in the final 20 minutes to easily account for Woden Valley 4-0 at Deakin Stadium on Sunday.
Bennett found the back of the net in the 25th, 72nd and 89th minutes and Ian Graham fired home a stunning strike in injury time to guarantee Canberra FC's third win from as many games this season.
Last year's league champions, but beaten in the grand final by Canberra Olympic, Canberra FC has started this year in devastating form under new coach Ray Junna, belting Monaro Panthers (7-3), Tuggeranong United (7-0) and Woden in consecutive weeks.
Bennett said there was plenty of confidence within the side as it marched past rivals with ease in the early part of the season.
"We're in good form and on top of the league, which is always good, and I don't think we've been troubled that much so far,'' Bennett said.
"It was good to take control of the game and boss it – I don't think Woden had any clear-cut chances.
"It's good to get the three points and keep a clean sheet, so all forward from here.''
Bennett can thank fellow striker Alex Oloriegbe for two of his three goals.
Oloriegbe completed all the lead-up work for the opener, weaving past the Woden goalkeeper before unselfishly finding an unmarked Bennett in front of the goal.
Bennett's next came courtesy of a nicely worked team move, scoring after a deflection from the Woden goalkeeper.
He completed the trifecta with the easiest of finishes, tapping in from point-blank range after some lovely play from Oloriegbe down the left before he crossed it in.
Junna said Bennett was making the most of his opportunity to push further forward this season.
"He's got pace and he's finding the back of the net regularly, so they're two very good ingredients for a front player,'' Junna said.
"He's certainly relishing that opportunity up there so hopefully he keeps it going.
"Oloriegbe has been a bit frustrated because we've got an assortment of riches up front, but he got his chance and did well.''
Meanwhile, the Monaro Panthers broke through for their first win of the season, beating the Cooma Tigers 3-1 at Riverside Stadium.
