TEAMBATH BUCCS Tim Davenport fired TeamBath Buccaneers to the victory that wrapped up the Slazenger England Hockey League Men's Conference West title with four games to spare on Sunday.

Hot-shot Davenport's hat-trick earned runaway leaders Buccs a 3-0 win at his former club, Havant, and the result leaves them 15 points clear at the summit with just 12 left to play for.

The triumph means Buccs are the first team through to the England Hockey League's Premier Division promotion tournament, which will be held over the May bank holiday weekend at Cannock.

Coach Jody Paul said: "I am delighted with the performance of the players, the assistant coaches and the squad as a whole.

"It is testament to their hard work, dedication and combined team strength throughout the season to ensure we secure our place in the play offs."

Havant made a positive start to the game and played at high tempo, with Ezz Mohammad always offering a threat.

But Buccs' defence came to the rescue thanks to the efforts of captain Matthew Collison, Andrew Machin, George Farrent and James Mumme Young. Keeper James Bailey also did well behind them to keep a clean sheet.

Davenport broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute when he slid the ball into the right corner of the net. He smashed home his second after good build-up play.

Phil Ball, Richard Bendry and John Haines were all thwarted by Havant but in the 65th minute the ball fell to the stick of Davenport and he coolly converted the chance to wrap up the points.

Buccs play Guildford at home on Saturday.