Hat-trick hero Sammie Szmodics could not hide his delight after scoring a hat-trick in Colchester United's impressive 4-2 triumph over Bradford City in the Youth Alliance Cup Final.

Szmodics was outstanding for the U's youth team, who clinched a league and cup double thanks to their excellent win at Valley Parade.

Szmodics said: “I was a bit disappointed I didn’t score more.

“But I’m obviously happy to score the hat-trick.

“I think my third goal was my best one, taking it around the keeper and putting it in to complete my hat-trick but I’m just happy for the boys.

“The boys are buzzing – it’s a long journey home but it’ll be an enjoyable one after that win.

“Macca scoring so early took the stress off us a bit and we know that when we play we get goals, so we don’t have to force anything.

“We went 2-0 up but when they scored just after half-time, we were a little bit edgy.

“But we made it 3-1 and after that, we cruised home from there and got the job done.

“It was good for the chairman who come on the coach with us to watch us play and be a part of the boys as well, so that was a real positive.”

For more reaction, along with a report and pictures, from the U's Youth Alliance Cup Final triumph at Bradford City, see Wednesday's Daily Gazette.