CRADLEY boss Will Pottinger was full of praise for his side after their 50-38 win over Eastbourne at Monmore Green.

The Heathens put in their best performance of the season so far to come out on top in an incident-packed encounter last night.

The hosts were forced to work hard against a strong Eagles side sat second in the National League table before eventually preserving their unbeaten home record.

Despite the visitors being hit by the losses of Jake Knight and Charley Powell due to crashes, Pottinger was thrilled with the determination shown by his side to capitalise upon their misfortune.

“We’re really satisfied with that result, because we’ve certainly had to work hard,” said Pottinger.

“We had a little bit of luck with Jake Knight and Charley Powell getting injured, but we’ve had our fair share of bad luck this season and we still have to make the most of it.

“To win by 12 points is an excellent result for us, and it denies Eastbourne any points as well which is good.”

Skipper Max Clegg was in imperious form for the hosts, reeling off four straight wins after suffering bike problems in his first ride.

He won heats 13 and 15, including a daring blast around Adam Ellis to hit the front in the final race.

Ashley Morris also impressed, partnering Clegg for a 5-1 in heat 13 to wrap up victory, whilst Luke Chessell notched paid double figures in the No.3 race jacket.

Debutant Richard Andrews also recorded a race win and demonstrated plenty of encouraging signs against his former club.

Ben Basford notched paid seven before crashing out of his final ride, but it was Bradley Andrews who arguably made all the difference with a paid nine point haul at reserve, the highest score of his Heathens career so far.

Lower order partner Layne Cupitt also ended a tough evening on a high with an excellent ride to round Luke Harris for third place in heat 14.

After moving back into the National League top four, the Heathens will travel to Sheffield for a challenge match at Owlerton on Thursday (7.30).

They will then travel to Rye House in the National League on Sunday before returning to home action against rivals Mildenhall at Monmore Green on Monday, July 11 (7.30).

CRADLEY 50: Max Clegg 12, Ashley Morris 10+1, Luke Chessell 9+1, Bradley Andrews 8+1, Richard Andrews 6+1, Ben Basford 4+3, Layne Cupitt 1+1.

EASTBOURNE 38: Ellis Perks 12, Georgie Wood 8+2, Adam Ellis 7+1, Luke Harris 6, Charley Powell 4, Stephen Whitehouse 1+1, Jake Knight 0, Gary Cottham R/R.