CRADLEY got their 2014 campaign off to a winning start with a hard-fought 48-40 triumph over Coventry in the Travel Plus Trophy first leg at Monmore Green.

The new-look Heathens were made to work extremely hard against a strong Storm side - yet a determined effort ensured life back under the Cradley banner began with a victory.

Despite some teething problems in the opening meeting of the year, boss Will Pottinger was pleased with an encouraging display - and he is backing his side to defend an eight point lead when they travel to Brandon for the second leg.

Said Pottinger: "We're satisfied with an eight point lead for the second leg. There are plenty of encouraging signs, and although there are things to work on we are still feeling positive.

"First meeting you are always going to have a few gremlins here and there but we came through it to get the win, and we are looking forward to welcoming King's Lynn for the National Shield next week."

New-boy Steve Worrall enjoyed a debut to remember with a confident performance featuring three race wins whilst Ashley Morris enjoyed a similarly impressive night standing in for Paul Starke at No.1.

With the top two impressing for the hosts, teenage ace Max Clegg recorded two race wins to provide solid support in the engine room of the side, whilst Tom Perry recovered from a difficult start to end his night on a high.

He shielded home young reserve Danny Phillips for a vital 5-1 in heat 12, just one race after Matt Williamson had brilliantly battled past Coventry No.1 Stefan Nielsen to link up with Worrall for a crucial maximum.

Both Williamson and Phillips scored excellently in the lower order to form a solid all-around team display and ensure an evening marred by mechanical issues for Nathan Greaves went unpunished.

The Heathens will now return to action next Tuesday as they host King's Lynn at Monmore Green in a mouth-watering National Shield tie.

TRAVEL PLUS TROPHY, 1st leg
Cradley 48: Ashley Morris 11, Steve Worrall 11, Max Clegg 9, Matt Williamson 7+2, Danny Phillips 5+1, Tom Perry 4+1, Nathan Greaves 1

Coventry 40: James Sarjeant 10, Luke Crang 8, Stefan Nielsen 7+2, Darryl Ritchings 5+1, Ryan Terry-Daley 5+1, Dan Greenwood 5, Martin Knuckey 0