Hat-trick for Ali in Jersey

ALISON MERRIEN picked up a hat-trick of victories in the Channel Islands finals.

Held in Jersey at the weekend, world champion Merrien won the women's singles and helped the Greens claim the women's triples and fours.

The event also acts as qualifiers for the British Isles Championships, which are taking place in Belfast in March.

'A very good weekend,' said Merrien (pictured).

'Three good games and the team as a whole was excellent.'

The big prize of the women's singles went Merrien's way when she had few problems taking care of Jersey's rising star Rachel MacDonald, 21-7.

'She's still a junior and she's coming on strong,' said Merrien about her opponent.

'She's got a lot to learn.'