Frank Lampard: New York City midfielder scores franchise's first hat-trick

Frank Lampard scored New York City's first ever hat-trick as the Major League Soccer Eastern Conference leaders beat Colorado Rapids 5-1.

The Rapids had Michael Azira sent off before Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo set up 38-year-old former England international Lampard for his first.

The ex-Chelsea player completed his hat-trick with two late goals after Tony Taylor and Steven Mendoza scored.

"I know it's a very short history but it's a great accolade for me," he said.

Frank Lampard: New York City midfielder scores franchise's first hat-trick

"I am really happy. I'm playing well, feeling good and obviously I can score goals."

Shkelzen Gashi scored in added time for the Rapids, whose 15-game unbeaten streak came to an abrupt end.

<-- --="" adsense="">New York City were formed in 2013 in a partnership between baseball giants the New York Yankees and Premier League champions Manchester City.

Lampard endured an injury-hit start to the season and was booed by his own fans during a 7-0 defeat by New York Red Bulls in May.

But the former England midfielder, who signed for the franchise in 2015, has now scored eight times in his past seven games.