CRADLEY Town got the new year off to a winning start with a cup victory over Dudley Sports.

The Hammers secured a 3-2 league cup success at Beeches View Avenue on Tuesday night.

Sports opened the scoring thanks to Jake Fairhurst's drive from distance on nine minutes before Darren Whitley levelled for Cradley six minutes later.

The Hammers then edged ahead when Geoff Hill fired in from the penalty spot after he was fouled in the box.

The clash was level at the break as Stuart Hillman netted in the 36th minute.

However, Hill bagged his second mid-way through the second half to ensure Cradley took the win.

Boss Andy Wyton was pleased with the way his team battled to victory.

He said: "It was a good cup tie and it was pleasing to get the win.

"It took the players time to get going after the Christmas break and the pitch was a little boggy with the rain we've had, but we got the job done.

Cradley will now continue their league campaign when they welcome Bilston Town this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

"We now have a massive month ahead and that starts at Bilston," added Wyton. "The players have done well but now we'll find out exactly how far we have come as a team."