Isle of Wight 42, Kent Kings 48

AS WAS the case six weeks ago when the Kent Kings last visited the Isle of Wight for a cup fixture, the Warriors were slow to start last night's National League meeting, which allowed the visitors to establish an early 12-point lead after just five heats.

The headstart proved too big a gap for the Wightlink-sponsored speedway team to overcome - but it was close after a valiant late rally at Smallbrook Stadium, Ashey.

Isle of Wight County Press:

With several Warriors riders carrying knocks from recent accidents, they treated a good-sized crowd to some all-action racing, with plenty of passing from both sides.

The Warrior’s new boy, Alfie Bowtell, was again aggressive and assured with just one defeat in his five races.

Ben Morley, clearly suffering from his recent wrist dislocation, kept plugging away manfully, as did all his team-mates, right down to the reserves.

Isle of Wight County Press:

The Warriors' co-promoter, Barry Bishop, was not disheartened by his team’s determined display.

After the meeting, Barry said: "That was a super speedway meeting - full of good racing from everyone, spiced with a little controversy.

"However, from our perspective, it was another disappointing home reversal.  

Isle of Wight County Press:

"You could see a couple of our guys weren’t 100 per cent fit and considering the buffeting they’ve taken recently, I’m not surprised.

"Nevertheless, I am proud of the way they kept at it and I cannot fault their commitment."

Scorers:

Isle of Wight Warriors: Ben Morley 10+2, Rider Replacement for Chris Widman, Scott Campos 7, Danno Verge 5, Alfie Bowtell 14, William O’Keefe 3, Shaun Tedham 3+3, Jamie Cousins 0.

Kent Kings: Luke Bowen 7+2, Taylor Hampshire 10+1, Jack Thomas 13, Anders Rowe 7+1, Nathan Stoneman 6, Nick Laurence 0, Alex Spooner 5+1. 

Isle of Wight County Press: