Cradley pipped in return to big time

Yes, the riders were borrowed. Yes, some had only the most tangential connection to the red, green and white.

But all were cheered to the echo by the pulse and heartbeat of any club - it's fans.

This was their chance to show the world – and would be promoters – that the deep-seated desire for speedway has survived the Heathens' 13-year absence from the sport's top flight.

How they seized it. The four-team tournament at Swindon was an opportunity for fans of three homeless clubs to see, even if for one night only, their colours in action again.

The meeting was a success and the turnout healthy – much credit goes to Swindon co-promoter Gary Patchett for a visionary gamble in putting it on – with pockets of Racers and Cheetahs fans dotted all over Blunsdon.

But it was the phalanx of Cradley supporters, decked virtually to a man and woman in team green, who made the most noise. And they were so nearly celebrating a joint victory with the home team, ending as runners-up.

With just three heats left, they trailed Swindon by six points – a situation ripe for the double-point tactical ride.

Cameron Woodward, with just two third places to his name, was next out. Team boss Colin Pratt, with the inspirational Adam Shields due to track in the penultimate race, opted to keep his powder dry.

Imagine Pratt's mixed emotions then, as Woodward stormed to the front for a runaway heat win that meant the black and white helmet cover could not then be used.

Shields duly annexed the next, leaving Cradley the merest scent of victory if Hans Andersen could win the final race and home star Leigh Adams somehow be relegated to last place.

It was too much to ask as Andersen took second spot as the Robins' skipper wrapped up his maximum.