DUDLEY saw their winning record in the National League come to an end as they went down 49-41 at Kent.

With No.1 Lewis Blackbird missing due to Premier League commitments, the Heathens were unable to snatch a point from Central Park against the improving Kings.

It was a disappointing day for the former Cradley club after eight consecutive wins in their league fixtures.

But team boss Will Pottinger was far from concerned by the performance of his side.

He said: "It's obviously disappointing to lose our first league meeting of the season, but it's not a result which is going to have much effect on our season.

"As expected we really missed Lewis Blackbird, but all the riders gave it a good go on a difficult track where making the starts was paramount.

"In the end a couple of falls and refereeing decisions cost us and we were perhaps a little unfortunate not to get a point.

"We are back in action against Isle Of Wight tomorrow at home (Tuesday) so we're glad to have an opportunity to quickly get back to winning ways."

Dudley were hit hard by the absence of Lewis Blackbird due to Premier League commitments - with rider replacement contributing only two points in his place.

Although Ashley Morris and Paul Starke made double figures, the visitors managed only three race wins without their No.1.

Dan Greenwood and Gareth Isherwood put in solid displays in the main body whilst reserves Max Clegg and Nathan Greaves also contributed - yet the Heathens lacked the firepower required against a determined Kent side.

KENT 49: Ben Morley 12, David Mason 10+2, Jack Kingston 10, Steve Boxall 7, Benji Compton 7, Adam Kirby 2, Connor Coles 1.

DUDLEY 41: Paul Starke 13, Ashley Morris 10+1, Dan Greenwood 6+2, Gareth Isherwood 5+1, Nathan Greaves 4+2, Max Clegg 3+1, Lewis Blackbird R/R.