CRADLEY are refusing to be drawn into a war of words with bitter rivals Mildenhall ahead of their National Trophy Final home leg at Wolverhampton on Tuesday (7.30).

Fen Tigers chiefs are angry about the compilation of the Heathens side with talented youngster Jack Smith coming in as a guest rider.

And Mildenhall co-boss Kevin Jolly has labelled the Black Country side 'Wolves reserves' and 'National League Select.'

But Heathens co-promoter Gary Patchett said: "Mildenhall are a fantastic side and we fully respect them for that.

"We are aware of Kevin's comments, all we will add is that we were unanimously voted into the Trophy as clubs were keen to keep us when it was clear we couldn't do a full season.

"Cradley remain big business for other clubs but the tide has clearly turned and clubs feel different.

"It's going to be a very tough final, we know that. I'm hoping to see two brilliant competitive meetings between two great sides and hope the fans enjoy themselves.

"This is our last action of the season and with plans up in their air for next year who knows what significance this meeting has?

"We've won the lot in our time at the club - apart from the National Trophy. We couldn't be facing tougher opponents.

"We look forward to welcoming Kevin, James Easter, Phil Kirk and the Mildenhall riders and fans to Monmore Green."

Mildenhall are without former Heathens favourite Danny Ayres with an arm injury - but ex Heathens number one Max Clegg comes in as a replacement.

CRADLEY: Alfie Bowtell, Jason Edwards, Kyle Bickley, Jack Smith, Ellis Perks, Richard Andrews, Taylor Hampshire.

MILDENHALL: Max Clegg, Josh Bailey R/R, Ryan Kinsley, Jordan Jenkins, Drew Kemp, Matt Marson, Sam Bebee.