Smith hat-trick sees off Morton

Kevin Smith scored a first-half hat-trick as Queen of the South stunned leaders Morton with a 4-1 dismantling in Scottish Division One.

With Morton pressing, the hosts took a surprise lead after 18 minutes when Allan Johnston's corner was headed across goal by Stephen McKenna for Smith to apply the finishing touch.

And the Dumfries club extended their lead on the half-hour - Scott McLaughlin crossing for Tom Brighton to head low into the goal from close range.

Five minutes later, The Doonhammers made it 3-0 when Smith headed home from another Johnston corner and Smith completed his hat-trick on 36 minutes when Johnston again found the summer signing to score from 20 yards.

The home side continued to dominate and could have extended their lead before Peter MacDonald scored a late consolation - his fifth league goal of the season - for a dejected Morton.