NEWLY promoted to the National Conference League, Ben Rhydding at three games in, sit at the top of the table after a convincing 7-2 win at home against Preston.

Opening the game at full throttle, it took less than 10 minutes for Rhydding to score courtesy of a far post manoeuvre from Callum Franks.

With their tails up, Rhydding continued at a fiery pace set by the electric Charlie Smith who showed no signs of fatigue in his legs after completing a marathon the previous day and roofing a glory goal to make it 2-0.

Preston were up for the fight, and legendary goalkeeper, David Carter was called upon to deliver his excellence on several occasions.

Goal three was a total delight; Mark Portnell picking a through ball for George Gamble to lay off to Charlie Smith who rewarded his kindness with a return pass for an easy and beautiful goal.

Rhydding were all over Preston now and a penalty stroke was saved but Smith struck again to make it four, after some dynamic press work from the in-form Mark Portnell, connecting up with Ewan Wardle to put Smith through on the post.

Going into the break 4-0 up did not leave Rhydding complacent as they knew they were facing the best comeback team in the league, and sure enough, within minutes Preston had scored from a messy goalmouth scramble to keep their hopes alive.

Charlie Smith dampened their spirits with another exceptional goal and took his team to a 5-1 lead, followed shortly after with another on his backhand to make it 6-1. And again minutes later from a corner to make it 7-1.

Preston were dignified and valiant in their response and continued to fight to the bitter end, keeping the game alive and claiming a late corner to close the gap. But it was Rhydding that shone and left the field with a mighty three points.

Coach Demy Dowley said: “We get better with every game both as individuals and as a team.

“We have plenty still to work on but this was a very satisfying performance.”