ERIC Odhiambo scored a second-half hat-trick as North Leigh routed hosts Thame United 7-1 in the preliminary round of the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday.

The Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West visitors took the lead after three minutes, when Aaron Woodley crossed to the far post for Roger James to knock home from close range.

Hellenic League Premier Division leaders Thame held firm for most of the first half and forced a couple of corners.

However, with Callum McNish, Elliott Osborne-Ricketts, James and Odhiambo controlling midfield, the visitors added a second goal in the 43rd minute with a fierce left-foot strike from Jamie Cook which beat keeper Henry Craven past keeper Henry Craven.

The second half saw the Millers rip through the Thame defence with five more goals.

Cook set up Odhiambo’s first, before making it 4-0 with a 20-yard shot in the 59th minute.

Manager John Brough introduced fresh legs with Matty Woodley and Roger Platt on for James and Woodley, and North Leigh’s attacks increased.

Odhiambo lobbed Craven for his second, before Platt finished off a great team goal.

Odhiambo then rifled home to complete his hat-trick.

Right at the death, Thame midfielder Ben Connelly scored a consolation goal for the hosts from close range.

The confident Millers now face a trip to Corinthian Casuals in the first qualifying round on Saturday, September 3.

North Leigh: Thompson, Hopkins, Steedman, Turk (White 80), Hole, McNish, Odhiambo, Osborne-Ricketts, A Woodley (Platt 58), Cook, R James (M Woodley 52) Subs not used: Taylor, Murphy.

Attendance: 81.