It’s not often that a side nets double figures at Step Six level, and Whittlesey Athletic boss Andy Lodge says it will be a long time before it happens again after his men produced the performance of the season to demolish Burton Park Wanderers 15-0 on Saturday afternoon.

The Fen side extended their marvellous start to life in the UCL Division one in stunning style; hitting 12 second-half goals in a display that has gained them nationwide acclaim.

Jack Bates, Liam Harrold and substitute Ian Bradbury hit hat-tricks, Adam Piergianni notched twice and further strikes from Joe Butterworth, Dan French, Oli Gale and Louie Medwynter secured Whittlesey’s extraordinary triumph, leaving boss Lodge full of praise for his prolific side.

“We didn’t expect it and I don’t think it will ever happen again,” he said.

“We were at 0-0 after half an hour and were a bit frustrated because Liam [Harrold] missed a penalty but then we got awarded another one and that’s where it all began.

“Looking back, if it had been 2-0 at half time it would have been fair, but then the second half came and they rolled over for us and every shot we had flew in. We were professional throughout.”

Lodge also admitted that he is aware of the pressure Saturday’s win will put on his side ahead of their game at Raunds Town tomorrow night.

He said: “When you win 15-0 it does put a bit more pressure on the next game. Raunds have always been a good side and we’re expecting a completely different game tomorrow.

“If we get the three points then it will have been a fantastic start to the season. If we get a draw then it will still have been a really good start.

“The win on Saturday put a big statement out to the rest of the league that we’re not just here to make up numbers.”

And despite their stunning start, the former Boston United defender says he has hopes of a top four finish, rather than an unlikely title win.

“I gave the boys a target of a top four finish and we’re sitting in third at the minute so we’re on course,” said Lodge.

“I haven’t looked at winning the league. I’m more focused on getting the ground sorted and making sure we’re ready to make a move up.”

Whittlesey travel to Raunds Town tomorrow night (7.45pm) before facing another away trip to Lutterworth Athletic on Saturday (September 3, 3pm).