FRUSTATED Cradley speedway boss Will Pottinger admits he would changes to his side if he could.

But he’s also emphasised he has the backing of the club directors to make changes after Sunday’s heavy defeat at Mildenhall.

The club are now facing an uphill battle to make the play-offs this season with a string of away meetings remaining – and only two home fixtures.

Pottinger says he would change his side now – if he could find riders who can come in and start scoring points.

“It’s not an easy situation with James (Purchase) out injured because there aren’t a great deal of riders around on his average who could come in and score points right from the off,” he said.

“The directors are happy for us to make a change but we have to find the right alternative. At this stage of the season it’s not that simple.

“At this stage of the season we’d need someone who can make an instant impact, and at this moment in time there isn’t really anyone to do that.

“It’s something we’ll continue to monitor, and if somebody becomes available who could come in and score points we’d make a move there.

“The same goes at reserve. We know Ben (Basford) and Brad (Andrews) are better riders than they’ve shown the last two meetings, but we need them to start showing it.

“If an opportunity arises to bring in a stronger option then that’s something we have to look at, but ideally they’ll find some form.

“We certainly don’t want our season to be over in September, we want to be in the play-offs and we need to riders to step up and earn the points to get us there.”

Heathens are represented by Ashley Morris and Max Clegg in the National League Pairs at King’s Lynn on Saturday.

Their next home meeting is on Tuesday, September 6, against Stoke, 24-hours after their trip to Kent.

“I’d like to think Ash and Max can challenge for the title on Saturday,” said Pottinger.

“It would at least mean we have something positive to take out of our season.

“I know the lads will be giving it their all.”