C & K Basildon Ladies striker Zoe Rushen bagged a hat-trick in Sunday’s clash with Cardiff.

But the 27-year-old still was unable to stop Steve Tilson’s side suffering a 7—4 defeat.

Rushen bagged a trio of goals having moved into a forward role.

However, she would have much preferred three points to her three goals.

“I think it's always going to be disappointing to lose a game but there are certainly some positives to take from this,” said Rushen.

“It's great to get a hat-trick but I would rather win.”

C & K Basildon’s defeat was their first of the campaign and saw them slip to seventh in the league.

But Rushen still remains pleased by Basildon’s start to the season following their promotion last term.

“I think we have done well,” said Rushen.

“There has certainly been a step up in standard like we were expecting and we want to be at the required level week in week out now.

“Sunday was very end to end and we were disappointed with some of the goals we conceded.

“But I was extremely impressed by our attitude and we never gave up.

Basildon also started well at the weekend with Meagen Doyle firing them in front after just three minutes.

However, Cardiff hit back within 60 seconds through Jemma Heath before the Welsh side took the lead with Hope Suominen on target.

Moments later, Kelly Issac made it 3-1 before Rushen netted an audacious effort from 35 yards.

Cardiff replied with Jemma Hope on target before she added a second to make it 5-2.

Rushen got C & K Basildon back into the game until Suominen and Naomi Clipston scored to make it 7-3.

But, Basildon had the last word with Rushen completing her hat-trick with a penalty.