WOLVERHAMPTON suffered a 53-40 defeat in their top of the table clash with Belle Vue at the National Speedway Stadium.

A fine display from Aussie ace Sam Masters was not enough to lead the Parrys International Wolves to a consolation point on a tough night in Manchester.

Masters racked up 17 points including a tactical ride win in heat 10, but he received little support as the visitors accounted for just five race wins.

Team boss Peter Adams believes Masters did not deserve to be on the losing side – but he admitted his side could have no complaints with the result.

“We’re very disappointed but we can’t have any complaints,” Adams said. “Belle Vue were the better team and they deserved their win.

“We can’t make any excuses. Belle Vue were superior tonight, they were faster out of the start and faster on the track.

“I don’t think Sam Masters deserved to be on the losing side today as he was in terrific form, but other than that we were second best unfortunately.”

No.1 Freddie Lindgren won his opening ride but was unable to make a major impression during the remainder of the meeting whilst Rory Schlein struggled apart from a composed win to pull Wolves within five points in heat 12.

Guest Ben Barker and reserve Ellis Perks added a handful of points apiece whilst Nathan Greaves beat opposite number Jack Smith in heat one.

But the Aces put in an excellent all-around team display and were led superbly by Kenneth Bjerre and Rohan Tungate.

Wolves will be back in action and looking for a response as they head to King’s Lynn on Wednesday (7.30).

BELLE VUE 53: Kenneth Bjerre 14+1, Rohan Tungate 13+2, Max Fricke 9, Dan Bewley 8+1, Steve Worrall 6+3, Jack Smith 3, Craig Cook R/R.

WOLVERHAMPTON 40: Sam Masters 17, Freddie Lindgren 9+1, Rory Schlein 5, Ben Barker 4+2, Ellis Perks 4, Nathan Greaves 1+1, Jacob Thorssell R/R.