ISLE OF WIGHT WARRIORS 39, BIRMINGHAM BRUMMIES 51

INJURY to team captain Ben Morley was the turning point for the Isle of Wight Warriors speedway team in their meeting against the Birmingham Brummies in the National League at Smallbrook Stadium.

Isle of Wight County Press:

The loss of Morley when the Wightlink-sponsored team was leading, alongside an influential contribution by Brummie reserve, Leon Flint, tipped the scales in the visitors' favour on Thursday evening.

In a meeting full of endeavour from both teams, the Warriors showed impressive cohesiveness and desire, which was well appreciated by the home fans.

Isle of Wight County Press:

However, the loss of Morley in Heat 10 curtailed the home side’s attacking strength in the closing races.

Early indications are that Morley has dislocated the thumb damaged at Redcar last month, and he immediately headed back to hospital in Essex for further assessment.

Isle of Wight County Press:

New Warrior, Alfie Bowtell, who has made quite an impact since he joined the team last month, was always in the thick of the action and went on to top score again as the Island side surrendered their unbeaten home league record in disappointing circumstances.

Co-promoter Barry Bishop remained upbeat afterwards.

“I thought it was a good meeting and thank all those who attended - preferring speedway over soccer," he said.

"Ben’s fall probably cost us at least six points.

Isle of Wight County Press:

"There was a real nail-biting finish, but fair play to the Brummies who are one of the best outfits in the division, with a true star of the future in Leon Flint."

Isle of Wight Warriors: Ben Morley 6, Danno Verge 5, Scott Campos 7+1, Chris Widman 4+2, Alfie Bowtell 12, Jamie Bursill 3+1, Shaun Tedham 2.

Birmingham Brummies: Tom Bacon 9+1, Layne Cupitt 1, Danny Ayres 12, Callum Walker 7+2, Danyon Hume 6+1, Arran Butcher 0, Leon Flint 16+1.