CHELTENHAM Town loanee Adulai Sambu scored a hat-trick on his return to Cirencester Town as the hosts kept their play-off hopes alive with a 3-0 win over Ware.

The 18-year-old forward joined The Centurions for a second loan spell ahead of Saturday's clash with play-off rivals Ware and made an instant impact in the first-half, converting from close range with a rather scrappy goal. 

It was a rather fortunate second for Cirencester and Sambu as his cross-come-shot was deflected into the net just before the hour mark. 

But there was no doubt about the third as Sambu's fierce left-footed drive flew into the top corner to complete the scoring and secure him the match ball.

But it is the points that will be the main positive for Cirencester as they keep their slender hopes of a top-five finish alive. 

A look at the Southern League Division One Central table shows The Centurions have closed the gap on those play-off spots with the 3-0 victory, but are four points adrift with five games left to play in the 2022/23 campaign. 

Cirencester now have back-to-back away games at third-placed Didcot Town and mid-table Hertford Town, before back-to-back home games sees Highworth Town and Walthamstow come to the The Corinium Stadium.

Cirencester then conclude their campaign with an away day at Kempston Rovers.

As for Cirencester Town Development, they were also in action this weekend but it was another difficult afternoon for the youngsters in the Hellenic League Division One as they made the trip to second-placed Hartpury University. 

The league placings would tell you this would be a huge challenge for Cirencester, who have taken just two points all season and are still without a win, compared to a Hartpury side who are level on points with league leaders Pershore Town with 73.

King Baidoo scored four times for the hosts, whilst Luca Robinson got himself a hat-trick in the 10-1 victory.