Herd, 21, who has made four first-team appearances this season, struck after 40, 64 and 85 minutes in the reserves match against the Gunners, which was attended by Villa boss Gerard Houllier.

"I've never been involved in anything like that since I've been in England," Herd told AVTV.

"This is the first time we've got 10 goals in a game so it is a brilliant game for us. It was a good feeling to get a hat-trick but it is a team game so we all enjoy it together.

"It could have been more - we hit the bar as well, we created loads of chances so the coaches were happy and it was just a good team performance.

"All of my goals were near enough the same - from corners and free-kicks - so I just followed them in and put them away each time. I was in the right place at the right time."

Herd also revealed Houllier offered words of encouragement which spurred on the second string Villa side.

"He came in to the changing room before the game and he helps all the boys, he encourages us and he lets us go and play football," Herd said.

"That is what he wants to do and it is great to play under managers like that - you are learning every day."

Herd played a full game in the win, along with fellow Aussie Shane Lowry who has been linked with a loan switch to Charlton.