CRADLEY fought their way to a vital 46-44 win against Birmingham in a last heat decider at Perry Barr.

The Motor Market Heathens took control early on and raced their way into an eight-point lead with five races gone.

As the rain came down, it was the Brummies who dealt with the tricky conditions better and reduced the Heathens' lead to just two points with ten heats gone.

Back-to-back 4-2's put the Heathens back in control, but a Heat 13 5-1 from Birmingham ensured a nervy finale.

Two shared heats were enough to secure the win for the Heathens who close the gap at the top to 15-points with three meetings in hand on the league leaders.

Team Manager Will Pottinger said: "It was a great team effort from everybody with every riders' contribution proving vital.

"There's no better way to wrap up the points than in a last heat decider and you could see how much it meant to everyone.

"It's the perfect confidence booster to beat our local rivals at the start of what is going to be a very busy few weeks from the team."

Ellis Perks carried plenty of speed on his first night back in the main body of the team to top score for the Heathens.

Skipper Max Clegg recovered from an engine failure in heat one to pick up three crucial race wins on his way to double figures once again.

Michael Neale enjoyed an impressive night at No.2 while Darryl Ritchings proved a fine choice of guest at No.4.

Arron Mogridge had a steady night at reserve while Tyler Govier picked up a paid win in heat two on a huge night for the former Dudley Wood outfit.

BIRMINGHAM 44: Adam Ellis 15, Tom Perry 9+1, Zach Wajtknecht 9, Sam Chapman 4+1, Adam Kirby 4, George Hunter 2+1, Alex Wilson 1.

CRADLEY 46: Ellis Perks 12, Max Clegg 11+1, Michael Neale 8+1, Darryl Ritchings 7+1, Arron Mogridge 6+1, Tyler Govier 2+1, Matt Williamson R/R.