CRADLEY will go into their Knockout Cup Grand Final second leg all square after drawing 30-30 at Perry Barr.

The Motor Market Heathens pulled off two consecutive 5-1 maximums to come from eight-points down in a meeting which was abandoned after ten heats due to the track time curfew.

Both sets of riders deserve huge credit for giving it their all in far from ideal conditions following poor weather in the build-up to the meeting.

Team Manager Will Pottinger said: "Circumstances were extremely difficult for both teams and we're disappointed with how things went.

"However I want to focus on the positives and there's a few for us as a team.

"We showed good character to fight back from eight down and the effort of all of our lads cannot be faulted.

"The odds will be stacked against us on Saturday but anything can happen in speedway and we're going to give it our best shot to try and end on a high."

Danny Ayres picked up three race wins on an impressive performance from the guest No.3 to top score for the Heathens.

Arron Mogridge continued his fine run of form by picking up three paid wins as he contributed a trio of maximum heat advantages for the hosts.

Max Clegg recovered from a nervy start to secure back-to-back heat wins while Matt Williamson deserved more points for his gutsy, determined efforts.

Guest reserve Jack Smith grew into the meeting as it went on and teamed up with Clegg for the vital 5-1 in heat ten to draw the scores level.

Tyler Govier had another night to forget at Perry Barr after being taken to hospital with suspected broken ribs.

The Heathens travel to Arlington on Saturday (October 24) for the second leg.

Cradley 30: Danny Ayres 9, Arron Mogridge 8+3, Max Clegg 6, Matt Williamson 4, Jack Smith 2+1, Tyler Govier 1.

Eastbourne 30: Richard Andrews 7+2, Marc Owen 7+1, Bradley Wilson-Dean 5, Kelsey Dugard 4+1, Martin Knuckey 4, Ben Hopwood 3.