CRADLEY stormed to a sensational 48-41 win over rivals Mildenhall to seal their place in the National League Grand Final.

Despite carrying a big lead from the first leg, the Heathens showed no mercy as they edged a memorable victory at West Row to wrap up a comprehensive aggregate triumph.

It was another fine display from the former Dudley Wood outfit as they overcame the absences of Steve Worrall and Matt Williamson to edge an entertaining clash.

And team boss Will Pottinger was full of praise for his side as they survived a tough test to claim their 20th consecutive win in all competitions.

Said Pottinger: “Although we had a big lead we wanted to concentrate on winning the meeting today, so we are delighted to have done that.

“It’s a great result considering we were without Steve Worrall and Matt Williamson, so we are all going away happy after another terrific team performance.”

Skipper Paul Starke led by example with a fine display as he raced to four wins out of five with a superb showing before defending the Bronze Helmet in the absence of Worrall immediately after heat 15.

His only defeat came as he was on the receiving end of a 5-1 in heat 13 which brought Mildenhall level and set up a tense finale.

However, the Heathens were gifted a 5-0 in the penultimate race as Jack Kingston fell and Brendan Johnson brought down Danny Phillips before Starke and impressive guest Simon Lambert sealed a tremendous triumph.

With in-form youngster Max Clegg storming to three impressive victories the Heathens heat-leaders accounted for nine race wins whilst Danny Phillips and Tom Perry also chipped in with solid scores to ensure they edged a tight affair.

Cradley will now be back in action on Tuesday as they welcome a strong Birmingham side to Monmore Green for what promises to be an entertaining night of competitive action.

MILDENHALL 41: Joe Jacobs 12+1, Dan Greenwood 7+1, Jack Kingston 7+1, Dan Halsey 5+2, Brendan Johnson 5+1, Connor Mountain 5+1, Connor Coles r/r.

CRADLEY 48: Paul Starke 13, Max Clegg 9, Simon Lambert 9, Danny Phillips 6+2, Tom Perry 6+1, Conor Dwyer 3, Nathan Greaves 2.

Cradley win 116-68 on aggregate.