CRADLEY Town had a late rush to find a goalkeeper for last Saturday's away game against Malvern Town.

The Hammers lost the match 4-3 despite a double from Adam Meacham and a Ryan Edwards strike.

Young goalkeeper Matthew Grainger, 17, was brought in from Lye Town to cover from the late absence of usual stopper Matthew Jones.

Chris Bladen was also unavailable for the Malvern game due to work commitments.

Chairman Trevor Thomas said: "The young lad in goal did well for us after coming in a short notice. It was always going to be difficult without Chris Bladen and Matt Jones but I think we should have won the game.

"It was an end-to-end match but we just couldn't put the ball away enough.

"I think it does show how far we have come recently because Malvern have had a good first half to the season."

Town were due to take on Shifnal in the league cup last night before travelling to Bewdley Town this Saturday.