Anderson started the season doubling up with the Birmingham Brummies

Dudley Heathens moved back up to second place in the National League with a narrow 49-44 win at the Isle of Wight.

The Heathens were behind for most of the meeting, until Lee Smart and Micky Dyer combined for a 5-1 in heat 11.

But it was Australian rider Jake Anderson who produced his best form of the season in the final two heats to secure a vital away success.

Anderson's 13-point haul backed up the 14 contributed by skipper Smart with Ashley Morris adding nine.

It was far from a straightforward night for the Heathens, however, with reserve Richard Franklin suffering concussion in a second heat fall and youngster Tom Perry salvaging a point after being given a 15-metre penalty for touching the tapes.

We're buzzing - we have to keep this momentum going for the rest of the season Heathens boss Will Pottinger

"This was typical of our season, we had to dig deep and show great character on a track many of our boys had never seen before," said team manager Will Pottinger.

"We're buzzing - it's been a great night and we just have to keep this momentum going for the rest of the season."

The Heathens return to Perry Barr next Wednesday to take on Plymouth, with Franklin expected to be cleared to ride.

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