CRADLEY overcame a tough test to continue their magnificent winning run as they defeated Birmingham 55-38 in the West Midlands Trophy at Monmore Green.

The Heathens have been in dominant form throughout 2014, suffering just one defeat and recording several huge wins on home soil.

Yet they were forced to put in a determined display to claim their 45th consecutive home victory as they took on a strong Brummies side in a one-off fixture.

Skipper Paul Starke and star man Steve Worrall both went unbeaten with faultless displays, joining forces in heats 13 and 15 as the Heathens struck three maximums in the final three races to wrap up a tremendous win.

Whilst Starke and Worrall were in formidable form, they received support from throughout the side as Will Pottinger’s men put in another strong all-around performance.

Tom Perry and Max Clegg recovered from conceding a 5-1 in their opening ride to both notch solid scores in the middle order, whilst reserve Matt Williamson played his part in three 5-1s as he battled through the pain barrier with a shoulder injury.

Youngster Nathan Greaves forced his way to the front alongside Worrall in heat one to help his side make a lightning start whilst Danny Phillips also won his opening ride despite an otherwise difficult night.

It was another confidence-boosting display for the Heathens as they gained some priceless track time ahead of the National League and Knockout Cup Finals later this month.

And team boss Pottinger was pleased to see his side put in another strong showing in what was an entertaining clash.

Said Pottinger: “It was a good test for us against a strong Birmingham side, and we came through it well.

“A few lads had some problems but everyone played their part again and it was good to get some track time to make sure everyone stays sharp.

“It was another good win for us to keep our confidence high and hopefully we’ve ironed out any problems, so it was a successful night.”

CRADLEY 55: Paul Starke 15, Steve Worrall 13+2, Tom Perry 7+1, Max Clegg 7+1, Matt Williamson 6+3, Nathan Greaves 4+1, Danny Phillips 3

BIRMINGHAM 38: Simon Lambert 13+1, Brendan Johnson 6+2, Adam Roynon 5, Luke Chessell 4, Ben Wilson 4, Adam Extance 3+1, Chris Widman 3+1