HEATHENS are within a point of the National League leaders after a thumping 59-34 win over the Isle of Wight at Monmore Green on Tuesday.

Kyle Newman romped to an unbeaten 11+1 haul but it was a solid all-round team performance as the former Cradley club, watched by their ex-promoter Tim Rowe, gave their best display of the season.

Skipper Jon Armstrong led by example with 13+1 and Richard Franklin continued his impressive form with 9+2 which included a rare appearance in Heat 15.

And once again a bumper crowd turned out to back the side with the green, red and white colours out in force.

Boss Will Pottinger said: “I’m pleased, very pleased. We all rode very well and it sets us up nicely for some important meetings over the next few days, starting at Newport on Friday.

“We have picked up points in all six league meetings so far and if we can keep the scoreboard ticking over then we will reach the play-offs. Then anything can happen!”

HEATHENS: Jon Armstrong 13+1, Kyle Newman 11+1, Richard Franklin 9+2, Ashley Morris 9+1, Tom Perry 8+1, Darryl Ritchings 6+1, Danny Stoneman 3+1.

ISLE OF WIGHT: Rob Smith 10, Gary Cotham 8+1, Nick Simmons 7, Brendan Johnson 4+1, Paul Starke 3, Lee Smethills 2+1, Ross Walter 0.