Carling Cup: Freddy's debut delight - Sport - Evening Standard
       

Carling Cup: Freddy's debut delight

Strikes by newcomer Freddy Eastwood and defender Jody Craddock secured Wolves' passage through the first round of the Carling Cup last night with a 2-1 win over brave Bradford.

It was ironic how swiftly, and effectively, Eastwood's 46th-minute header from a cross by Stephen Ward and Craddock's explosive shot three minutes later settled a tie that seemed so wide open after Bradford's gallant first half.

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy was a frustrated observer as his team made such heavy weather against a club who have slipped from top to bottom of the football ladder in the past six turbulent years.

The visitors threatened most when Paul Evans lashed a 25-yard shot against the Wolves crossbar just before the end of a first half in which they created more attempts on goal than their hosts.

McCarthy's change at the interval to introduce Ward prompted the opening from which Eastwood was able to celebrate his first goal on his debut, following his recent £1.5m signing from Southend.

Bradford refused to give up, though, Kyle Nix hitting home in the 77th minute.

Michael Bridges ended his long wait for a goal — but only just — to the relief of Hull and himself as the Yorkshire side saw off Crewe 3-0.

The 29-year-old striker had last scored on December 16 but managed to find the target after 42 minutes at Gresty Road.

When Julien Baudet handled a header from Richard Garcia, Hull were awarded a penalty.

Bridges stepped up and his effort was saved by Ben Williams but the ball went straight out to the taker, who gratefully kocked the rebound home.

Garcia put Hull two up 11 minutes into the second half and Stephen McPhee added the third in the 70th minute.

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