Hendon won the Robert Dyas (Isthmian) League Cup for the first time since 1977 this evening as they beat Grays Athletic 3-2 at Whyteleafe.

In a thoroughly entertaining game, both sides made good use of the excellent 3G surface, and it was the Greens who drew first blood when Andre Da Costa's shot was fumbled over the line by Lamar Joseph-Johnson in the 36th minute. Within five minutes the lead was doubled as Kezie Ibe slammed the ball into the roof the net.

Unfortunately, the usually solid defence was then caught napping and Bradley Fortnam-Tomlinson pulled Grays back into the game.

The second half saw the Essex side have plenty of possession, but they found the Hendon back line in typical unforgiving mood, and it was the Greens who scored next, as Da Costa fired home a beautiful curling effort past a static Joseph-Johnson into the bottom corner.

Grays continued to pile forward in search of goals, but they found Ben McNamara in inspired form as he pulled off a string of top quality saves. They did score what was to be a late consolation through Sean Cronin, but weren't able to fashion an equaliser to take the game to extra time.

There were joyful scenes on the final whistle as players, management and supporters celebrated together, especially when Kevin Maclaren was handed the cup.