CRADLEY Town’s title claims were dented came unstuck at fellow challengers Haughmond as the Shrewsbury-based side registered a 3-1 win.

Although Cradley fell behind to an early Dean Richards goal, they began to pile on the pressure, only to be kept at bay by Haughmond goalkeeper Sam Jones who pulled off a string of fine saves.

Jones' best save was a goalbound effort from striker Chris Bladen, who is now back in Cradley’s ranks following a spell at Sporting Khalsa.

Dave Howarth then increased Haughmond’s lead early in the second half, but Cradley clawed themselves back into contention through Jovan Blake-Walker's thunderous strike thundered home a spectacular goal after Lewis Clarke had cleverly headed on Aaron Lloyd’s cross.

Blake-Walker should have bagged his and his side's second goal but was denied by another breathtaking point-blank save from Jones.

Cradley continued to push forward in search of an equaliser but got caught out on the break when Matt Aston was robbed in possession allowing Howarth to hit home his second goal with just four minutes remaining.

Cradley remain fourth in the table but have now slipped 12 points adrift of leaders Shawbury United with just one game in hand.

Unlucky Cradley suffered a further blow when they were the victim of storm damage to their Beeches View Avenue ground.

Rainwater was discovered flooding through the visitor’s' changing room last Friday night.

It meant they were forced them to call off Black Country Rangers’ local derby game against Dudley Town last Sunday afternoon.

However, the roof has and electrics have now been repaired and Cradley should be back in action at home to mid-table Stone Old Alleynians this Saturday (3pm kick-off).