CRADLEY suffered a 56-34 defeat against high-flying Belle Vue at the National Speedway Stadium last night.

Heathens could only manage two race wins as they were undone by a stunning Dan Bewley maximum for the powerful Colts.

Danny Ayres fought to an excellent 12-point haul whilst Tom Perry battled to paid double figures – but it was largely a tough night for Will Pottinger’s side.

The Heathens’ boss admitted they were simply beaten by a better team and has urged his riders to move on ahead of Monday’s crucial clash with Stoke at Monmore Green (7.30pm).

“It was just as tough as we expected,” Pottinger said. “Belle Vue are a very strong side who are excellent at home as we saw tonight.

“There was some good racing at times, and the races between Danny Ayres and Dan Bewley in heats 13 and 15 in particular were top draw.

“It wasn’t through lack of effort, we were just beaten by the better team on the night unfortunately and we’ll have to refocus to try and get back to winnings ways on Monday.”

BELLE VUE 56: Dan Bewley 15, Rob Shuttleworth 12, Jack Smith 11, Kyle Bickley 7+1, Andy Mellish 6+1, Luke Woodhull 5+2, Lee Payne R/R.

CRADLEY 34: Danny Ayres 12, Tom Perry 8+2, Dan Greenwood 7, Joe Lawlor 4, Shelby Rutherford 2+1, Conor Dwyer 1, Luke Harris R/R.