GEORGE Purcell claimed a first half hat-trick as Canvey Island rounded off their pre-season programme by recording a 4-2 win over Waltham Abbey.

The frontman and fellow summer signing Tobi Joseph found the back of the net to ensure the Gulls will go into the new Isthmian North campaign, which gets underway this weekend, in high spirits.

Having seen numerous early efforts wasted, Joseph broke the deadlock on 12 minutes after rounding the goalkeeper.

However, the Isthmian South Central hosts drew level immediately.

The friendly then saw Purcell demonstrate why Canvey boss Mark Bentley was so keen to sign the striker from Hornchurch.

With 24 minutes on the clock, Purcell restored the Gulls' lead by finding the corner of the net.

After being fouled in the penalty area, Purcell dusted himself down before slotting home the resulting spot-kick.

And, eight minutes before the break, Purcell's long range strike ensured he would take home the matchball.

Although Waltham Abbey cut the deficit in the second half, Canvey had done enough to end pre-season on a high.

Meanwhile, Basildon United drew 1-1 at Three Bridges.

The hosts were reduced to 10 men early on as the goalkeeper brought down Ayo Odukoya.

The Bees made a fine start to the second period as Tom Anderson broke the deadlock, but Three Bridges quickly levelled matters.

Elsewhere, Great Wakering Rovers were consigned to a narrow 4-3 defeat by Ashford United.