Welsh winger Ryan Hedges scored a sensational second-half hat-trick in the first qualifying round of the Uefa Europa League, as Aberdeen thrashed NSI Runavík at Pittodrie.
The 25 year-old has had a flying start to the season in the Scottish Premiership, scoring once and adding a further assist in the first three games of the season.
The wide-man joined Aberdeen in 2019 from Barnsley on a three-year deal, where he has gone onto feature 25 times in the Scottish top-flight, scoring on five occasions.
He showcased his prowess in-front of goal against the Faroe Islands outfit, who last week, thrashed Barry Town United 5-1 in the Uefa Europa League preliminary round.
Ryan Hedges of Wales in action against Trinidad & Tobego. Wales v Trinidad & Tobego International friendly at the Racecourse Ground, Wrexham. (Credit: Lewis Mitchell)
Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes was full of praise for Hedges’ contribution, as his side cruised into the next round of the competition.
“Hedges’ second-half hat-trick was brilliant from him. I think the confidence to go up and take the penalty is an indication of where his game is. He’s now got four goals and an assist,” he said, speaking to the BBC.
Hedges, who started his playing career in the Cymru Alliance with Flint Town United also reflected on his outstanding performance.
“We dominated the game and controlled it. To get three goals in an unbelievable achievement for myself. Hopefully, if we can keep progressing, fans will be here.”
Despite his fine start to the season, Hedges wasn’t selected for the upcoming Uefa Nations Leagues fixtures, against Bulgaria and Finland respesctively.
He has, however, had three caps for his country. Hedges will be hoping to continue his superb form when the Dons travel to face-off against second-placed Hibernian at Easter Road this coming Sunday.
It was also a night to remember in the Uefa Europa League for Cymru Premier clubs The New Saints and Bala Town, who also advanced to the second round of the Uefa Europa League qualification phase.
(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)
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