Old Loughtonians men’s first team thrashed Cambridge City 4-1 to go fourth in the Conference East Hockey league.

The victory gives Loughts back to back wins as they look to close the gap on the league leaders.

Loughts started well but it was the hosts who scored first, taking the lead after 15 minutes.

The advantage didn’t last long however as Conor Caplan converted a cross at the far post to score his first National League goal three minutes later.

As the first half drew to a close Loughts then took the lead when Josh Mepham took the ball past a defender on to his reverse stick before firing it past the keeper to make it 2-1 at the break.

Goalkeeper Chris Naven was called upon to protect Loughts’ lead early in the second half but the result was sewn up when Mepham notched his second of the game to extend the visitors’ advantage.

Josh’s brother, Luke Mepham, went close with a surging run past several City players but was unable to apply the finish and it took Oliver Didham to poke home from close range to make it 4-1.

Loughts’ next match is at home to league leaders Wimbledon.

The ladies first team were less fortunate as they suffered their second defeat of the season losing Sevenoaks 2-0.

Loughts ladies next host high-flyers Harleston Magpies.