A seven-goal thriller saw Berkhamsted overcome Hadley and extend their lead at the summit of the South Midlands League Premier Division to four points.

The result looked to be all but assured at half-time as Berko eased into a 3-1 lead ahead of the interval, but a topsy-turvy second period allowed Hadley back into the match.

Three goals after the restart saw Berko battle to a 4-3 victory to keep their unbeaten start to the season going.

Sean Coughlan and the prolific Stacey Field struck to add to a brace from Adam Mead for Berko, while Lewis Francis, Harry Sedgley and Rhys Shirley-Clarke notched for the home side.

Berko may have a four-point cushion over Welwyn Garden City, but they will be acutely aware of the fact their closest challengers have a game in hand over them.

Town are back in action on Saturday when they face Tring Athletic away from home.

At the time of going to press, London Colney were preparing for an FA Vase replay against Cogenhoe United, after playing out a thrilling 4-4 draw on Saturday.

An open first half ended all square at 2-2 at the interval after Manny Hammond had struck twice for the hosts at Cotlandswick Park.

The sides exchanged goals soon after the restart to make it 3-3, with Laurence Vaughan netting for Colney.

After going behind once more, Colney were fortunate to pull level once again as Wilson Ferreira scored directly from a corner.

Once their cup commitments are dealt with, Colney’s focus returns to the league with a trip to Leighton Town on Saturday.

The two outfits are separated by two points and a place in the table, with Colney just behind their opponents.

However, having played four games more than Leighton, they will be eager to claim all three points from the game.