Atkinson's goal fest

Martin Atkinson, left, in action for Central during the Ford National Hockey League.

Whanganui hockey export Martin Atkinson has been in strong form for Central in the Ford National Hockey League this month.

The 22-year-old former NZ Futures Under 23 representative had connected with eight field goals in five matches so far - second on the overall list behind North Harbour's Robbie Capizzi with nine.

Atkinson's Central team was set to face Auckland at the ITM Hockey Centre in Whangarei yesterday afternoon.

He scored a hat trick in Central's 4-1 win over Midlands in their opening match on September 3.

The following day, Atkinson scored again in the 2-2 draw with Capital, along with taking the winning shot at the end of the penalty shootout to give his team the duke 3-2.

He did not score on September 10 in Central's 3-1 loss to competition leaders Canterbury, but the following day got the crucial 60th minute score to tie the match with North Harbour 3-3, although they would go on to lose the penalty shootout 2-1.

Atkinson was back in form on Tuesday as Central thrashed Northland 10-0, with the Whanganui representative grabbing another hat trick.

He will be heading off to South Australia to play at the end of the national league.