Isle of Wight Warriors 52, GB Young Lions 37

THE Isle of Wight Wightlink Warriors had some good fortune in the early stages of their meeting against some of the best up-and-coming speedway riders in the country.

The Islanders were up against a strong Lions team of under-19s in a special team speedway challenge match at Ryde's Smallbrook Stadium.

Although the home side ran out winners on the night, the Young Lions suffered two early bouts of misfortune that certainly impacted on the final outcome.

As early as Heat 2, the Young Lions suffered problems as their reserves failed to negotiate the first two corners — with one losing control of his machine following a mechanical issue, which inadvertently forced team-mate, Spooner, to crash into the safety barrier and unable to return for the re-run.

With more engine problems suffered ion the way to the starting line, the second race went ahead with just two Warriors taking part.

There was an hour's delay as an ambulance was called to take the stricken rider to St Mary's Hospital, Newport.

When racing resumed, the Warriors' star riders, Alfie Bowtell and Ben Morley, turned on the style, riding unbeaten throughout the evening.

Popular reserve Shaun Tedham, showing new-found speed and aggression, enjoyed his best night of the season, whilst Danno Verge also seemed to have more speed, desoite his dogged efforts not reflected in his modest score.

Despite taking that early body blow, the Young Lions pressed on and showed plenty of potential.

Unusually, the match saw the husband and wife duo of Neil and Jackie Vatcher managing opposite sides.

The battle went Jackie’s way for the Warriors and after the meeting she said: "Very happy with the win. Ben looked really sharp and quick, as did Alfie — and what a night for Shaun Tedham. He was so up for this tonight even before they lost two riders.

"It’s the best he’s ridden here this season and I just had to give him heat 15 after he’d put so much effort in both on and off track."

Warriors: Alfie Bowtell 14+1, Danno Verge 5+1, Scott Campos 8+1, Chris Widman 1, Ben Morley 12, Jamie Bursill 3+2, Shaun Tedham 9+1.

Young Lions: Leon Flint 10, Ben Woodhull 5+1, Joe Lawlor 8+2, Jason Edwards 9+1, Taylor Hampshire 5, Alex Spooner 0, Lewis Whitmore 0.