Lynn brought Herne Bay United’s unbeaten Premier Division record to a spectacular end with a commanding 9-3 triumph at Alive Lynnsport.

Josh Taylor led the way with five goals, while Jake Reed helped himself to a hat-trick as the reigning multiple English Premier League champions produced a devastating attacking display.

The home side could hardly have wished for a better start, taking the lead after just five seconds when captain Taylor made no mistake from the penalty spot.

However, Herne Bay quickly showed why they had arrived in Norfolk without a defeat to their name.

The Kent visitors restored parity five minutes later before striking again just three minutes afterwards to turn the contest on its head.

Lynn responded by calling a time-out, a decision which soon paid dividends as Taylor found the net for a second time to bring the scores level.

The hosts then regained control through Owen Norris, whose effort ensured they headed into the interval holding a slender 3-2 advantage.

Lynn stepped up a gear after the restart, with Reed extending their lead before Taylor completed his hat-trick.

Herne Bay briefly threatened a comeback by reducing the deficit to 5-3, but their hopes were swiftly extinguished as the champions took complete command.

Reed struck twice in the space of a minute to complete his treble and put the result beyond doubt.

Taylor then rounded off an outstanding individual performance with another two goals, taking his personal tally to five and sealing an impressive six-goal victory for the home side.