GREG Hackett was both hero and villain as Ardley United recorded a thrilling win at home to Pewsey Vale in the Uhlsport Hellenic League on Saturday.

After scoring two cracking goals, he was being sent off as the Division 1 West leaders just hung for victory.

Ardley went ahead after ten minutes when Hackett dribbled and weaved his way around several defenders before unleashing an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box into the top right corner.

He soon doubled their lead with another stunning strike. A great pass from Daniel West found the advancing striker, who volleyed the ball into the net.

Pewsey upped their tempo in the second half and David Cope took advantage of a defensive error to make it 2-1 .

Ardley were looking comfortable until the 69th minute when Hackett was dismissed for a second yellow card.

Deon Gallacher eased their worries by adding the hosts’ third goal five minutes later, after being set up by Lewis Gabbidon.

They had another great chance when new signing Henry Landers was clean through on goal with only the keeper to beat but was pulled back by a Pewsey defender, but the referee no penalty.

Pewsey’s James Blake made it 3-2 in the 88th minute.

But fine goalkeeping by Tom Molloy and resolute defending kept Pewsey at bay in the eight minutes of injury time.

With second-placed Easington losing, Ardley are now five points clear at the top with a game in hand.

However, on Tuesday night, Craig Adey’s side lost 1-0 at home to Bracknell in the Bluefin Sports Cup.

Their next game is away to Woodstock Town on Saturday.

Bicester Town return with a match at home to Wallingford Town in Division 1 East.