LITTLETON returned to winning ways in Midland League Division One with a hard-fought 2-1 home victory over Atherstone Town.

The visitors had recently changed managers and the new incumbents brought in several new players who were trying to impress.

But the first-half was devoid of action as both teams resorted to long-ball tactics in the hope of a lucky break.

The game only came to life on 70 minutes when fifth-from-bottom Atherstone took the lead.

A long ball out to the right evaded Littleton’s defence and a cross into the box was met by Andy Culver, who scored from close range.

However, fourth-placed Littleton hit back immediately and equalised in the next minute.

Jamie Clarke ran at Atherstone's defence and squared the ball for Robbie Bunn, who scored with a crisp 20-yard shot through a crowd of players.

Littleton pushed for the winner but had to wait until the 86th minute before it came.

A long cross into the box was headed back across goal where Stuart Hall was on hand to score from close range.

Littleton entertain county rivals Bromsgrove Sporting in the Smedley Crooke Memorial Trophy on Saturday (3pm).