Eastbourne Eagles shared the Elite League points in a thrilling 45-45 draw at Belle Vue last night.

It took two sensational efforts by world No. 2 Jason Crump, the league's top rider, to deny Eagles victory.

Crump came from behind to pass both Billy Janniro and Joe Screen in heats 13 and 15 when the visitors looked set for maximum points.

Eagles, who were without Adam Shields and Peter Ljung as well as Mark Loram, produced a gutsy display against the revitalised bottom team.

Janniro, guesting for Loram, was the only rider to beat Crump in six races, while Screen dropped his only points at the hands of the Belle Vue ace.

David Norris figured in two 4-2 wins with Janniro and a 5-1 with Joonas Kylmakorpi, who also scored a crucial 5-1 with Dean Barker in tow.

That put Eagles into the lead, but it was all square with one to go. And that was the cue for Crump.

Belle Vue: Jason Crump 17, Steve Johnston 10, Chris Manchester 9, Carl Stonehewer 6, Craig Watson 2, Ales Dryml 1.

Eastbourne: Joonas Kylmakorpi 10, Joe Screen 10, Billy Janniro 9, David Norris 8, Simon Stead 5, Dean Barker 3, Ricky Ashworth 0.