Saint Patricks FP’s Stephen Gardiner equalled a long-standing club record by firing seven of Saints goals as they thrashed Minishant AFC 11-0 in the Scottish Amateur Cup.

Gardiner equalled Thomas Bissett’s long-held record as they progressed through to the next round.

And this stellar performance was more impressive considering Saints’ limited options due to several players being out injured and others walking wounded on the bench.

A Ryan Deeley brace and goals from Dom Ruane and Kevin McElroy sealed a comfortable victory for the visitors.

The scoring began after just seven minutes, with Deeley rifling a low drive past the keeper into the net.

This was quickly followed by a Ruane header, which bounced off the underside of the crossbar before Deeley netted his second and St Pats’ third moments later.

Kevin McElroy made it four before the hosts finally had a spell of play, but were unable to threaten the Saints goal.

Gardiner bagged his first just before half time, McElroy being clipped by Alistair Blair leaving Gardiner to whip in the free-kick over the wall and into the top corner from 18 yards out.

And Gardiner will have McElroy and Ross Willies to thank, who helped Gardiner claim his six second-half goals and take his total for the game tally up to seven.

As for Minishant AFC, with a park and new facilities planned, they will get over their disappointment and be proud of the warm welcome and superb hospitality in The Wick, Prestwick, and will look to bounce back in the league wish them well for the season.

Now St Pats turn their attentions to next week and the second round of the CSAFL League Cup, the opponents being Blantyre Celtic.   ST PATS: Proctor. King. McIntyre. Allan. Ruane. Gardiner, Jeremy. Currie. K McElroy. R Deeley. Willis.

Subs: Ward. B Deeley. Graham. D McElroy