Daniel Chima was hat-trick hero for Molde in the entertaining 4 - 3 win over Stabæk on Sunday at the Aker Stadium. The victory means MFK now top the standings in Norway's top division with 48 points from 24 games.

''This is my first hat-trick in Norwegian Football. I am dedicating this feat to God who made it possible, and to my family and well-wishers out there. At this moment the ball is kept safely in my locker at the stadium. Tomorrow (Monday, ed), I'll give it to my teammates to sign, then take it home to a safe place,'' a delighted Chima told allnigeriasoccer.com.

Chima netted five goals in 24 appearances in the 2011 campaign as Molde won their first league title. And with 6 games left, the 21 - year -old ex Lyn Oslo ace is confident that MFK under the tutelage of Ole Gunnar Solskjær can retain the crown.

He said briefly: ''We are at the top now and I think with lots of hard work and focus, we can make it happen again.''

Chima's contract with MFK expires at the end of next season, and the management wants to extend his stay in the Romsdal region. There is a fresh two-year deal on the table which the Nigerian is studying.

Molde must act fast as other clubs are also showing interest in the in-form attacker.