DUDLEY went top of the table in dramatic style as they took a magnificent 52-37 away victory against Isle of Wight.

An incredible late surge saw the injury-hit Heathens take all four points against the heavily fancied Islanders and maintain their perfect National League record.

It completes a remarkable 48 hours for the former-Cradley club after they snatched a vital away win at Stoke on Sunday – and boss Will Pottinger was delighted with another hard-fought win.

He said: “It was tight to start with, but then the boys pulled away in the last third of the meeting to get a great win.

“With Max still injured, R/R for Gareth and no Ash (Morris) we were very depleted, so to go to one of the toughest tracks in the league and win by such a big margin to get all four points is very pleasing.”

Paul Starke returned to his former club to top score following a superb performance – linking up with the impressive Lewis Blackbird for crucial 5-1s in heats 13 and 15.

Steve Boxall stepped in with a superb guest appearance replacing Ashley Morris at No.3, whilst youngster Nathan Greaves enjoyed the best night of his career so far as he continues to go from strength to strength at reserve.

Dudley will look to preserve their perfect record when they host Stoke at Monmore Green on Tuesday, August 13 – and they could have a full team at their disposal with Ashley Morris, Gareth Isherwood and Max Clegg all hopeful of shaking off their injuries.

Isle of Wight 37: Darryl Ritchings 8+2, Ben Hopwood 8+1, Adam Ellis 8, Brendan Johnson 6, Danny Stoneman 3, Tom Perry 2+2, Chris Widman 2+1
Dudley 52: Paul Starke 16+1, Nathan Greaves 12+2, Steve Boxall 11, Lewis Blackbird 10+2, Danno Verge 2, Dan Greenwood 1+1, Gareth Isherwood R/R
National League points: Isle of Wight 0 Dudley 4