Cradley Heathens aim to keep it tight
Cradley travel to Belle Vue tonight for the first leg of their Knockout Cup quarter-final clash.
The Motor Market Heathens know they will need to be at their best against a Colts side who hold an unblemished record at the National Speedway Stadium this season.
Cradley will be without their spearhead duo Danny Ayres and Tom Perry for the trip to Manchester; Ayres is required for Championship outfit Redcar whilst captain Perry sustained arm and rib injuries whilst guesting for Premiership side King’s Lynn on Monday.
In-form Birmingham man Liam Carr, who struck a 15 point maximum against the Heathens just over a fortnight ago, has been drafted in as a guest and team manager Will Pottinger wants to keep things as tight as possible.
“Belle Vue have got a very good team so we’re expecting a tough match,” Pottinger said. “Of course we’re handicapped by being without or top two riders in Danny and Tom but hopefully Liam can come in, win some races and score a good amount of points.
“Richard Hall will be our captain for the night, which is a great honour for him, and hopefully he can make his experience count. Realistically, it’s important that we look to keep the score as close as we possibly can ahead of our home leg.”
The second leg will be held at Perry Barr, on Wednesday, September 27.
