Talented Nigerian striker Michael Obafemi scored a hat-trick in Southampton's 4-1 rout of Wolverhampton Wanderers at St Mary's Stadium in the third round of the FA Youth Cup on Thursday.

Obafemi started in attack for the young Saints along with Jonathan Afolabi, while United States Soccer Federation target Owen Otasowie entered into the fray in the 83rd minute for the visitors.

Against the run of play Carr gave Wolves the lead on 23 minutes, but Southampton were back on level terms at the interval courtesy of Hamblin's goal.

Obafemi made it 2-1 in the 72nd minute, increased the lead four minutes later before scoring from the penalty spot to complete his hat-trick in the 90th minute.

Reflecting on the hat-trick, Obafemi told Southampton's official webpage: ''It’s a very special night. It’s my first hat-trick for the club, so it’s onwards and upwards from here.

''We’ve not had the best results from youth level through to the first team, so it’s a big boost for the club.''

Obafemi, who has caps for Republic of Ireland U19 team, has netted 11 goals in all competitions for Southampton U18s so far this season.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : southamptonfc.com