Sutton United boss Paul Doswell reckons striker Craig Dundas is like a fine wine – he gets better with age.

The 30-year-old, player of the year last season, was a physical presence alongside Leroy Griffiths in Tuesday’s impressive 2-2 draw with West Ham United.

Anthony Riviere and Sam Page were on the scoresheet as Doswell’s men held the Hammers in front of 1,200 fans at Gander Green Lane.

Dundas will face pressure from Griffiths, Craig Watkins and Bradley Woods-Garness – currently on leave from action – for a starting slot when the campaign gets in to full swing.

But manager Doswell reckons the former Hampton & Richmond Borough striker has already grown to the challenge this summer.

“Bradley is currently dealing with some personal problems at the moment, so we are starting the season with three strikers,” said Doswell.

“I would say Leroy is going to be my 20-goals-a-season man if we have one, but the goals are going to be shared out. The pair of them have a real physical presence up front and Craig (Dundas) has only got better as he has got older.

“He has improved his fitness levels and knows if he wants to keep playing at this level, or higher, he needs to cotinue to look after himself.”

Suggestions Hammers trialists Mikael Forssell and Jlloyd Samuel would feature on Tuesday proved unfounded as a strong West Ham reserve side took to the field this week.

But Doswell, who takes his side to Carshalton Athletic for the second friendly against thier fierce rivals on Saturday, was no less impressed with his side’s performance and hinted it may not be the Championship side’s only visit.

“It was a brilliant game and a massive success for the club,” he added.

“Although it was their reserves there were a host of U19 internationals on show, so it was a high-quality, competitive game.

“West Ham were impressed with what we’re trying to do and I think we could see them back here last year.

“I have been delighted with how pre-season has gone and the crowds we have had has put some money in the coffers.”

Goalkeeper Kevin Scriven’s broken thumb continues to keep him out of action, with veteran Wayne Shaw keeping goal against the Hammers.

Scriven though is expected to start the season against Woking on August 13.

“Kevin’s injury is the only downpoint of pre-season for me but we are certain he will be ok and there is no worries,” added Doswell.