Whitby Town begin in style with goals from Craig Farrell (From Gazette & Herald)

Whitby Town begin in style with goals from Craig Farrell

3:40pm Wednesday 9th January 2013 in Sport

Whitby Town began 2013 in style with two victories to climb further away from the Evo-Stik League premier division drop zone – again led by former York City goal-getter Craig Farrell.

The striker’s arrival on the coast has coincided with the Blues’ rise in fortunes and he bagged five goals in the two games including the club’s first hat-trick since a Jimmy Beadle three-goal salvo in March 2010.

Farrell’s treble gave Whitby a 4-1 home win over Frickley Athletic on New Year’s Day in front of 284 fans.

Frickley had taken the lead after 31 minutes through Jake Picton, but Farrell equalised three minutes before half-time and in the second half the hosts got well on top, with Farrell scoring further goals after 56 and 72 minutes. Whitby’s fourth goal came from Ashley Corkey.

On Saturday, Whitby were full value for their 5-2 shock win at fourth-placed Marine.

Graeme Armstrong put Whitby ahead after 26 minutes, and Farrell got back on the scoresheet four minutes later.

Marine pulled a goal back with an unstoppable 25-yarder by Danny Mitchley, but Armstrong and Farrell both struck again to give Whitby a commanding 4-1 lead early in the second half.

Rogan pulled a goal back for the hosts but Steven Snaith sealed Whitby’s win after their best performance of the season away from home.

This Saturday, Whitby's six-game unbeaten run will be severely tested as they entertain leaders North Ferriby United (3pm).