THE Isle of Wight Warriors speedway team return to action at Ryde's Smallbrook Stadium when they entertain the Buxton Hitmen in a National League fixture tomorrow evening.
This will be a real must-win fixture for the struggling Wightlink-sponsored team — a view echoed by the Warriors management and fans.
Isle of Wight Warrior Scottt Campos, who won the Slide in Ryde pairs competition last week.
However, many on the terraces will be mindful of the shock win the Hitmen delivered in the same fixture last season.
Yet again, the Warriors will be hampered by absences and it will be an unfamiliar septet taking to the track tomorrow.
The Warriors will be without Ben Morley and in-form Alfie Bowtell, who are both needed to ride for their senior side, Lakeside, at Sheffield in the National Championship.
Chris Widman is still recovering from his wrist operation and the problem reserve berth remains unfilled.
It means team manager Jackie Vatcher has had her work cut out putting together a competitive side within the current averages and regulations, but she has done well to bring in two guests in the shape of flamboyant rider Danny Ayres (Mildenhall) and promising youngster Taylor Hampshire (Kent Kings).
Jamie Bursill will take the vacant reserve berth, whilst the rider replacement option will be used for Bowtell to enable any of the Warriors an additional ride.
Buxton arrive with some familiar names in their line-up, with 2017 Island favourites Ben Wilson and Connor Coles expected to be in action.
The importance of a win was not lost on Warriors co-promoter Barry Bishop, who said: “Last year’s meeting with Buxton was pivotal in sending the wooden spoon to our stadium — and it really hurt.
Warriors star Scott Campos
"This year, it cannot be the same. It’s a must-win meeting and the boys need to show the type of form we have been seeing lately.
"We must not allow ourselves to fall behind at any stage of the meeting — and it won’t be easy without Ben, Alfie and Chris.
"But we think we have set our team up in such a way as to ensure the Warriors emerge victorious."
The Isle of Wight Warriors are likely to start with Danny Ayres, Danno Verge, Scott Campos, Taylor Hampshire, Jamie Bursill, Shaun Tedham and a rider replacement (for Alfie Bowtell).
With a superb weather forecast and the school holidays under way, a full night of family fun and excitement is on the cards.
Spectators are advised to arrive early to enjoy the pre-match activities, with gates open at 5.30pm ahead of open pit access at 5.45pm.
The parade of riders will be at 6.45pm, with tapes up at 7pm.
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