A DAVID Weatherston hat-trick saw Queens cruise to victory and inflict Morton's biggest home defeat of the season.
Such has been the ferocity of the winter weather that yesterday saw Queens reach the half-way stage of their league schedule, just 11 weeks before the season is due to officially end.
Kenny Brannigan's Dumfries side, who still harbour title ambitions, made the most sensational start when they took the lead in the first minute. Carlo Monti needlessly bundled Derek Holmes in the box after just 31 seconds and Willie McLaren blasted the spot kick past goalkeeper Colin Stewart.
Morton, who had only lost once in their last five previous games at Cappielow, reacted well. Two minutes after going behind, only a goal-line clearance from Stephen McKenna prevented Allan Jenkins' 17-yard low drive from hitting the net.
Allan Moore's side threatened again in 24 minutes when Derek Lyle turned and sliced his shot over the bar from 18 yards. And minutes later Brian Graham volleyed over.
Queens doubled their lead in 32 minutes. Allan Johnston flicked a superb pass through for Weatherston to run on and apply a delightful finish from 15 yards.
The visitors deservedly got a third in 64 minutes and wrapped up the points when Rocco Quinn carved open the hapless Morton defence for Weatherston to run on and slip the ball past Stewart. And the striker bagged his hat-trick in 76 minutes with a carbon-copy.
Queens Mad Man of the Match - Ryan McGuffie - Had a superb game against his old club.