CRADLEY boss Will Pottinger says too much went against his side as they lost the first leg of the National Trophy Final 51-39 at Monmore Green.

It means the Motor Market Heathens hopes of lifting silverware are all but over ahead of Sunday’s second leg.

“It would’ve been difficult for us with a full strength team against that Mildenhall side,” Pottinger said.

“You can’t afford anything to go against you against Mildenhall because they look like the team who’ll complete the clean sweep of honours at this level this season.

“But being without Taylor (Hampshire) after he crashed at Kent on Monday and then losing Ellis (Perks) after just one ride with foot injuries meant it was always going to be that little bit harder.

“Of course we’re disappointed but we cannot fault the effort of our riders - they gave it their best as always but just had too much go against them.”