DUDLEY Heathens started their season with a thrilling 45-45 draw at Stoke in a Midland Challenge.

The former Cradley club were without Ashley Morris who was riding for his Premier League club Edinburgh but they still managed to frustrate the home side.

New signing Adam Roynon was the last heat hero as he partnered inspirational skipper Jon Armstrong to a 5-1 to share the match after they were 44-40 down going into the decider.

Boss Will Pottinger said: "Before the meeting we weren't really sure what we could achieve here without Ash, but Stoke were also without Simon Lambert who is a top rider at this level.

"Adam Roynon had a disagreement with the start marshal and that seemed to wind him up for the rest of the meeting, he was unstoppable, and Armo as skipper was superb.

"It was a tough night for the reserves, Luke and Darryl, but I am generarlly very encouraged by what we have achieved and we are all looking forward to our big opening night against the USA Tourists at Wolverhampton on Tuesday. We are desperate to win the Travel Plus Trophy."

STOKE: James Sarjeant 12+1, Tony Atkin 10, Tim Webster 7, Jamie Pickard 6+2, Jason Garrity 5, Ben Reade 3+2, Gareth Isherwood 2+2.

DUDLEY: Jon Armstrong 12+1, Adam Roynon 12, Tom Perry 10, Luke Chessell 6+1, Richard Franklin 3, Darryl Ritchings 2, Ashley Morris R/R.