CRADLEY seized control of their Knockout Cup semi-final tie as they stormed to a 51-39 first leg victory over King’s Lynn at the Adrian Flux Arena.

Max Clegg and Matt Williamson both struck faultless paid maximums for the Motor Market Heathens to lead them to a sensational win as they aim to book a Grand Final showdown with Eastbourne.

After building up an early lead, Will Pottinger’s injury-hit side fought hard to preserve their advantage before the impeccable Clegg and Williamson joined forces in heats 13 and 15 to ensure they will take a healthy 12 point advantage into next Wednesday’s second leg at Perry Barr.

Team boss Pottinger was thrilled to see his side overcome their Gold Cup disappointment against local rivals Birmingham to get back to winning ways in fine style.

“We’re delighted with the result. I think it probably went a lot better than many people expected, and it was a great team effort,” Pottinger said.

“I feel a bit for King’s Lynn who had some misfortune which we’ve had to contend with ourselves on occasion this season, but we still had to get the job done and we are pleased to come away with a healthy lead.

“We’re in a good position heading into the second leg next week, but it doesn’t change anything and we’ll have to go in with the same attitude looking to wrap it up as soon as possible.”

Whilst Clegg and Williamson were in dominant form, Arron Mogridge continued his excellent run with a vital performance in the engine room of the side.

He made a seamless transition back into the No.4 race jacket to bag a hard-fought 12+1 and step up as a third heat-leader in the absence of injury victims Ellis Perks and Nathan Greaves.

Guest Darryl Ritchings and youngster Jack Parkinson-Blackburn both added solid contributions whilst Tyler Govier put in a determined display as the Heathens claimed a well-deserved win.

KING’S LYNN 39: Ryan Kinsley 17+1, Scott Campos 7, Shane Hazelden 6+2, Tom Stokes 5, Layne Cupitt 2+1, Josh Bailey 2, Adam Portwood 0, Jake Knight R/R.

CRADLEY 51: Max Clegg 14+1, Matt Williamson 14+1, Arron Mogridge 12+1, Darryl Ritchings 5+1, Jack Parkinson-Blackburn 4+1, Tyler Govier 2, Nathan Greaves R/R.