CRADLEY skipper Max Clegg was full of praise for his side after they put in a fine performance to seize control of their Knockout Cup tie with Stoke last Saturday.

The Motor Market Heathens edged a 43-35 triumph over the Potters in a meeting cut short due to a power failure at Loomer Road.

Clegg, who raced to a spectacular 14 point haul to lead his side to victory, was delighted with a strong all-around team showing to ensure they built up an eight point lead ahead of the second leg at Perry Barr on May 27.

And he reserved special praise for flying heat-leader Matt Williamson after his 13 point haul and reserve Ellis Perks, who enjoyed a welcome return to form with a hard-fought paid nine.

Said Clegg: "It was a great effort by all the boys and we could of won by more but for a couple of silly falls. It was a good all-around team performance so we are really pleased.

"Matt Williamson is really starting to relish his role as a heat-leader and he scored some big points for us tonight in the absence of Nathan (Greaves).

"It was good to see Ellis (Perks) back amongst the points and hopefully we can finish the job when we entertain Stoke in the second leg a week on Wednesday."