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hat-trick

What does hat-trick mean?

When one player scores three goals in the same game; a perfect hat-trick uses left foot, right foot and head.

"He completed his hat-trick with a late penalty and took the match ball home."

Origin

From cricket, where a bowler taking three wickets in three balls was rewarded with a hat.

Frequently asked questions

What is a hat-trick in football?
It is when a single player scores three goals in the same match.
What is a perfect hat-trick?
A perfect hat-trick is three goals scored one with the left foot, one with the right foot, and one with the head.
Why is it called a hat-trick?
The term comes from cricket, where a bowler who took three wickets with three consecutive balls was traditionally given a new hat.
What does the scorer get for a hat-trick?
By tradition the player who scores a hat-trick keeps the match ball, often signed by teammates.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.