James Stevens' hat-trick helped Witham Town to a 4-1 win against Waltham Forest that allowed them to close the gap on Ryman League division one north leaders VCD Athletic back to two points.

With VCD losing against Harlow Town, second-placed Witham are now just two points behind with three games in hand as the race for the title gets ever hotter.

Stevens was the star of Witham's latest success as their winning run was extended to seven games.

It wasn't the former Southend trainee who struck first, though, as John Watson broke the deadlock in the 16th minute.

But Stevens did find the target twice before half-time and added his third from the penalty spot after the break to leave Lee Scott's goal as only a consolation for Waltham Forest.

Witham's next game is on Tuesday when Tilbury are due to be the visitors to the Village Glass Stadium.