LADIES FOOTBALL: Fensome scores three as Hatters triumph

The visitors started brightly and were ahead after just 60 seconds as Jess McKay played a ball down the line for Tash Fensome, who drove forward and slotted into the bottom corner.

Rachel Carter and Fensome came close to a second, as did Jo Rutherford who fired her effort against the post.

Norwich began to come into the game as Rachel Evans was forced into a good save.

In the second period, Luton made another fast start, moving 2-0 in front as Fensome’s cross was converted by Rutherford.

The third arrived in superb fashion on 55 minutes as Rutherford beat her opponent and delivered a lovely ball for Fensome to volley into the bottom corner.

The hosts then reduced the deficit courtesy of a Carter own goal, but Fensome soon had her hat-trick, finishing well after good work by Michelle Byrne.

Fensome then almost bagged a fourth as she intercepted a goal kick, but Norwich defended the danger well.

With 10 minutes to go, the Canaries gave themselves a glimmer of hope, as they made it 4-2.

However, Evans saved well to prevent a third as Luton held on for victory, with manager Nikki Baker saying: “Norwich is always a difficult place to come and I am really pleased with the win, and scoring four goals as well.

“We created several good chances I am delighted for Tash scoring a hat-trick.”

The Hatters are now second in the table and host leaders Crystal Palace this weekend.

Meanwhile, Luton’s Development team won 1-0 against Hackney thanks to Jodi McClelland’s strike.

Bethany Phillips scored all four goals for the U13s as they defeated Leighton United 4-2.

The U16s completed a perfect weekend for the club, beating St Albans 6-1 with Jodie Bellinger (3), Chloe Fitzsimmons (2) and Funmi Babalola on target.