HEATHENS ARE CHAMPIONS

Wednesday October 09, 2013
DUDLEY finally lifted the National League title on an unforgettable night at King's Lynn as they completed a 100-86 aggregate victory in the Grand Final.

Carrying a 13 point lead from the first leg 24 hours earlier, the battling Heathens stormed to a sensational 47-46 win on the night.

The title was decided as early as heat 11 with a marvellous 5-1 from Lewis Blackbird and Dan Greenwood which sparked jubilant scenes amongst the loud travelling support.

It is the first league title the former Cradley club have won since they returned to the track in 2010 - and team manager Will Pottinger was thrilled to finally get his hands on the trophy.

He said: "It feels absolutely awesome - we've been so close a couple of times but we've finally got over the line and it's an amazing feeling.

"It's been a great team effort from everyone - the riders, mechanics and Graham Jones helping out as well.

"It's incredible to finally win the trophy, and to get the win on the night just put the icing on the cake really."

Skipper Ashley Morris completed a wonderful two nights to top score for the visitors - following on from his maximum 24 hours earlier to drop just two points.

Lewis Blackbird and Paul Starke both provided strong back-up - with Blackbird eventually involved in the heat 11 maximum which secured the title.

He was partnered by Dan Greenwood who sprung to life to record two vital wins in heats 8 and 11 to earn a well-deserved heat 15 appearance.

Reserves Gareth Isherwood and Nathan Greaves both built on an outstanding 5-1 in heat two to comfortably out score their King's Lynn counterparts, whilst Max Clegg completed a magnificent team display with a solid score.

It continues a remarkable season for the triumphant Heathens, as they add the illustrious league title to their wins in the National Shield, Pairs and Fours.

They will now battle to complete a clean sweep as they take part in the KO Cup Final later this month to pull the curtain down on a campaign which will go down in history.

NATIONAL LEAGUE GRAND FINAL 2nd leg
KING’S LYNN 46: Robert Lambert 10+1, Lewis Rose 10, Darren Mallett 9, Lewis Kerr 7, Jake Knight 5+1, Shane Waldron 4+1, Josh Bailey 1.
DUDLEY 47: Ashley Morris 13, Lewis Blackbird 8+1, Dan Greenwood 7, Paul Starke 6, Nathan Greaves 6, Gareth Isherwood 4+2, Max Clegg 3+1.
Dudley win 100-86 on aggregate and are 2013 National League Champions

Share This:   Facebook Twitter