Steve Ringwood's hat-trick helped make it a winning start for Hastings United in the Isthmian League.

United thrashed a Fleet Town side including former England winger Andy Sinton 4-1.

Boss Steve Lovell said: "We've worked hard on our defending because it let us down last season. If we keep out the goals we will get them at the other end because of the quality we have up front."

Ringwood demonstrated that quality with three well-taken goals including a superb 20-yard volley to open his account before completing his treble in injury time. Chris Honey had restored United's lead after John Mealey had levelled on 47 minutes for Fleet.