Bjarne Pedersen produced the last-heat win which ensured Eastbourne did not suffer a home slip-up.

Pedersen raced away to win heat 15 and ensure full points in the 50-40 success over play-off rivals Lakeside.

Hammers would have taken one of the three points had they managed a 5-1 in heat 15 but Pedersen, who has been struggling with a back injury, comfortably raced clear of Lewis Bridger and Craig Cook.

Eagles were 10-2 up after two races but Hammers made it tough from then on.

Six of the last eight heats finished in 3-3s but a 4-2 led by Pedersen ahead of the previously unbeaten Cook in heat ten restored the eight-point lead.

Kyle Newman, impressive as guest reserve, fended off Richard Lawson in another 4-2 two races later.

Eagles had luck on their side in heat eight when Hammers were on a 5-1.

Richard Lawson, in second place, suffered an engine failure which forced Cameron Woodward to fall and the race was awarded as a 3-3.

Cook, guesting for the injured Davey Watt, top-scored for Lakeside.

Eagles: Pedersen 11+2 (5), Newman 11+2 (5), Kylmakorpi 8+1 (4), Lahti 7 (4), Woodward 6+1 (5), Michelsen 5+2 (4), Halsey 2+1 (3).

Lakeside: Cook 11+2 (5), Bridger 8 (5), Lawson 6 (4), Nilsson 6 (4), King 4 (4), Ellis 4 (5), Morley 1+1 (3).