South African international Ignacius Malgraff celebrated his Stoneham Lane debut with a five-goal salvo as Trojans thrashed Marlow 7-3 to extend their winning start to life in South Hockey League Division 2.

The 22-year old, who played for South Africa in this year’s World Cup and, more recently in the Commonwealth Games in Scotland, demonstrated the clinical art of goal poaching as newly promoted Trojans swept to a second consecutive win.

“There was nothing spectacular about any of the goals, save the passing movement we achieved on the way into and in the D itself,” smiled Trojans coach Mike Watts. “We passed the ball around the Marlow defenders very nicely and allowed Ignacius to do his stuff where it counted.”

Ironically, Trojans found themselves under the cosh in the early stages with Marlow’s early pressure culminating in Jon Hooker giving the visitors the lead.

Trojans quickly regrouped and by half-time were 2-1 up, with Malgraff scoring both the goals.

The South African, who will be with Trojans until the Christmas break when he has to rejoin the Proteas for a New Year tournament, completed his hat-trick soon after the break.

Trojans cashed in and scored four more goals – Piers Everleigh and Toby Edwards hitting the target before Malgraff completed his nap hand.

Jack Turner twice converted penalty corners to cut the deficit for Marlow, but by then the damage was done.

Reflecting on Trojans start, Watts added: “We had a good pre-season and ten goals from two wins in our new Premier Division 2 environment is pretty pleasing.

“We needed to get off to a positive start and we’ve certainly done that.

“I think there’s a lot more to come from the squad and prospects for the season are looking pretty good.”