KRIS Holt’s hat-trick condemned Barnton to another defeat that leaves them adrift at the bottom of the table at Christmas.

Runcorn Linnets had victory secured before the break, and coasted through the second-half to preserve energy ahead of a Boxing Day derby with Runcorn Town.

Danny O’Brien converted a penalty after Paul Shanley was tripped, and Holt doubled their lead when he pinched possession off Patrick Hamid before firing inside goalkeeper Rob Cooke’s near post.

A third goal followed on 38 minutes, and it mirrored Holt’s first.

After finding himself in an identical position, he fired right-footed past the Villagers’ custodian.

Steve Lloyd’s side had a chance to reduce their arrears after Jason McShane’s effort had been saved by goalkeeper Matthew Holmes, only for Jack Irlam to blast over the rebound.

There was no way back for Barnton, who made sure damage was limited after the interval against hosts that have yet to lose in the league this season in front of their own supporters.

Chris Yearsley cleared off the line to prevent them falling further behind, while at the other end Chris Smith’s cross caused consternation among Linnets defenders.

Substitute Freddie Potter’s header rattled the crossbar before Runcorn added gloss when Holt turned in from close-range to complete a first treble for the promotion-hopefuls.

Potter cursed his luck a second time when he sent another effort against the woodwork with Cooke unable to intervene.

Linnets |Holmes (GK), Atherton, Morris, Moore, O'Brien (Jones 20), Nolan (Kyle Hamid 70), Simpson, Holt, Wellstead (Potter 55), Shanley, Hickey Subs not used Houghton, Lawton Goals O’Brien 12 (penalty), Holt 20, 38, 78

Barnton | Cooke (GK), Patrick Hamid, James McShane, Riley, Mannion, Yearsley, Moores (Webster 63), Jason McShane, Smith (Ford 78), Irlam, Crofts Subs not used Kiernan (GK), Derek McShane, Malone Booked Moores (simulation)

Attendance 286