Speedway: Isle of Wight Warriors sign off season with defeat

ATTEMPTS to clip the Eagles' wings were badly off the mark as the Isle of Wight Wightlink Warriors signed off their season in the National League with a 24-point mauling in Eastbourne.

The Warriors became the second National League side to complete all of their 2018 league fixtures, but went into the meeting having to use two guest riders as cover for Alfie Bowtell and Ben Morley, who were on National Championship duty.

Warriors guest rider Nathan Stoneman, a thorn in the Isle of Wight team earlier this season, got points on the board against Eastbourne Eagles.  Photo: Ian Groves. 

Max Clegg and former Warrior, Nathan Stoneman, filled the breach and took the battle to the Eagles, finishing as top scorers after a series of excellent races on the night.

None of the other Warriors could be faulted for their commitment, but on several occasions they were victim to unfortunate falls on the tight circuit — a far cry from Smallbrook Stadium's wider, longer track — which had a damaging effect on their points total.

Warriors co-promoter, Martin Widman, said: “We knew this would be another testing match for the side.

"Overall, this wasn’t a bad performance and we were helped by the terrific contribution of our two guest riders.

"But clearly the Eagles were in need of all the league points available and put on two thoroughly professional displays to keep their play-off aspirations intact. We wish them well."

Although the Warriors have now completed their fixtures, the Isle of Wight Wizards have one more meeting remaining against the Reading Racers on Saturday, also at Eastbourne.

The club is also waiting on news about the National League Riders' Championship — an individual event due to take place at Leicester on Sunday, September 30.

The start list of riders is due to be announced shortly and, if their other racing commitments allow, it is likely Warriors star rider this season, Bowtell, and Ben Morley will feature.

                                                           WARRIORS SCORES

Isle of Wight Wightlink Warriors: Max Clegg 12+2, Danno Verge 1, Scott Campos 3, Chris Widman 1, Nathan Stoneman 13, Jamie Bursill 2, Shaun Tedham 1.