Hatts off to Adebayo

By LINDSAY SUTTON at Bloomfield Road

LUTON’S leading striker Elijah Adebayo helped the Hatters back to winning ways with his ninth goal of the season.

His headed effort from a far-post cross by Jordan Clark added to the first-half opener by skipper Sonny Bradley, with Clark grabbing a late third.

The convincing victory banished the Hatters’ recent slump and boss Nathan Jones said: “That ends our run of four games without a win and the conditions out there were pretty apocalyptic.

“The cold and the rain made it pretty awful to play, but we did it by three goals in the end.

“Adebayo’s goal was crucial – I’m pleased for him and glad he’s added to his tally. He deserves it for effort and commitment.”

Blackpool boss Neil Critchley agreed Luton’s second goal was vital. But he said: “I still thought we could get back into it, but they defended in numbers and kept control.

“Their third goal made it look like a real beating, but we weren’t too far away really.”

The Seasiders’ own winless run now stands at six consecutive Championship clashes. BLACKPOOL: Maxwell 7; Sterling 6, Ekpiteta 7; Husband 6, James 7;

Mitchell 6 (Bowler 59, 6), Dougall 6 (Carey 77, 5), Whitley 6, Dale 7 (Lavery 63, 6), Yates 6, Anderson 6. Subs not used: Grimshaw, Connolly, Gabriel, Keogh. LUTON: Shea 8; Burke 6, Bradley 8, Naismith 7; Bree 8, Campbell 6; Lansbury 6 (Mpanzu 45, 6), Clark 7, Bell 6; Adebayo 8 (Hylton 82, 5), MendesGomes 5 (Muskwe 76, 6). Subs not used: Isted, Pereira, Onyedinma, Osho. MAN OF THE MATCH: Elijah Adebayo: Settled Luton and ensured victory with his decisive strike.

REFEREE: Peter Bankes 8.