Dudley Heathens win National League opener
Dudley Heathens kick-start their National League season in ideal fashion with a 56-36 triumph over King's Lynn at Monmore Wood.
Heathens certainly did not have things all their own way against a depleted Young Stars side, with three 5-1s in the closing stages required to ensure they took all three league points.
A string of falls in the early stages prevented the home side from opening up any substantial advantage.
Athey were also forced to contend most of the meeting with just five riders after Nathan Greaves suffered a hand injury in a heat four horror smash.
But Lewis Blackbird continued his inspired form with an effortless maximum to lead the side to victory, whilst Ashley Morris was also unbeaten with the exception of a Heat 10 exclusion.
Gareth Isherwood dropped just one point in the middle order following a classy display, whilst reserve Max Clegg bagged a hard-fought 11+1 on a busy night.
Dudley 56: Lewis Blackbird 15, Gareth Isherwood 12+2, Max Clegg 11+1, Ashley Morris 10+2, Dan Greenwood 8+1, Nathan Greaves 0, Paul Starke R/R.
King's Lynn 36: Lewis Rose 14+1, Shane Hazelden 7+2, Bredan Johnson 5+1, Adam Kirby 5+1, Scott Campos 3+1, Chris Widman 2+2, Lewis Kerr R/R.
