DUDLEY Heathens went agonisingly close to a sensational away win in their opening National League meeting of the season but had to settle for a point from a 45-44 defeat at Mildenhall.

The former Cradley club, who took a bumper following to the West Row track, found themselves 10-2 down after a nightmare start but managed to get back into the meeting thanks mainly to in-form Adam Roynon, Ashley Morris and guest Barrie Evans.

And they took the lead for the first time in the meeting in Heat 13 when Roynon and Evans teamed up for a maximum 5-1.
But the home side then claimed a 4-2 to take a one-point lead into the last heat decider.

James Brundle was the hero for the Fen Tigers as he took the chequered flag ahead of Roynon and Evans to spark big celebrations for the home fans.

Heathens boss Will Pottinger said: “I’ve got mixed feelings really, to get so close to a win and miss out in the last heat is a bit disappointing, but after we were 10-2 down after the first two races then I have to say it’s a good effort.

“And speaking to some of our supporters afterwards they seemed to be feeling the same way, a shame we couldn’t win but to get a point from our first away meeting is a good effort. There are lots of positives.”

Heathens now prepare to launch their bid for the first National League silverware of the season when they host Buxton in the first leg of the National League Shield at Wolverhampton on Tuesday (7.30).

MILDENHALL 45: Lewis Blackbird 9, Aaron Baseby 8+2, James Brundle 8, Jack Hargreaves 8, Daniel Halsey 7, Danny Stoneman 3+1, Joe Jacobs 2+2.

DUDLEY 44: Adam Roynon 14, Ashley Morris 10, Barrie Evans 9+2, Tom Perry 6+1, Richard Franklin 3+1, Darryl Ritchings 2, Luke Chessell 0.