HAYES & Yeading boss Phil Babb remains hopeful of securing one of his top targets ahead of other would-be suitors.

Jake Reid showed exactly why Babb has been tracking the forward since his first week in the hotseat at United by bagging a hat-trick on his debut appearance in last night’s 3-1 pre-season friendly win over Slough.

The west country-based striker, who boasts a CV including spells with Salisbury, Newport and AFC Telford, is understandably not short of clubs wanting his signature, some with higher status and clout than United.

However, Babb is hoping some connections to west London might persuade Reid to sign on with his new-look side.

He said: “I got the job here on May 9 and I was talking to Jake by May 12.

“He has got Conference National pedigree and helped Welling gain promotion last year by scoring four goals in nine games for them.

“We will be speaking with his people. He has got a few other offers from clubs and there is a Conference National side who are very interested, but I think the logistics of that are not suitable for him.

“He is a Bristol lad, but has got some connections in the Hammersmith area which may sway things for him.”

On last night’s evidence it is easy to see the attraction as far as Babb is concerned.

Reid had already gone close more than once before he volleyed United in front from close range on 36 minutes following good build up play by Luke Williams and Dan Wishart.

He doubled the lead four minutes after the break when Rebels keeper James Hawtree misjudged the bounce of a long punt forward on the 4G pitch and Reid headed over him into the empty net.

The hat-trick was completed on 68 minutes when he tapped in a cross from the left and a fourth should have followed minutes later when he flashed a header wide with the goal gaping.

Scott Harris grabbed a late consolation for Slough on an otherwise comfortable night for United dominated by the hat-trick man.

Babb added: “You can’t ask for more than he gave tonight. He asked if he could stay on at half-time because he was enjoying himself and he scored a very good hat-trick.

“I’m very pleased with him - I just hope there were not too many scouts watching.”