Eastbourne Eagles are considering their team-building options after a depleted line-up lost at home to title-chasing Coventry.

The Bees regained top spot in the Elite League wth a 53-40 win at Arlington, despite a near-perfect showing from Nicki Pedersen.

The Dane scored 17 points from five rides, including a double-points win, and got support from guest Edward Kennett, who had 12 from five rides before coming last in heat 15.

Eagles, missing David Norris, Dean Barker, Stefan Andersson and Cameron Woodward, were level at 9-9 after three heats but Chris Harris led a heat-four 5-1 which put Coventry clear.

Harris had 13+2 from six rides and Scott Nicholls 12 from five. Rory Schlein's paid ten from four outings included Pedersen's only defeat.

Eagles promoter Bob Brimson told fans: "The injury situation changes every day. I hope it starts getting better soon.

"Until they say 'I can't ride' this is a club that sticks by its riders through thick and thin."

Brimson praised the backing given to depleted Eagles by fans who turned out for the defeat and said: "The turnout and support was fantastic."

Barker has an MRI scan on his troublesome shoulder tomorrow (Sunday).

Norris is due for another check-up but Cameron Woodward is expected to miss four weeks with a broken collarbone and ankle injury so Eagles will look for a stand-in.