NEWS: Coventry score double challenge success
Coventry travelled to Norfolk last Sunday for a return Challenge Match fixture and they continued their fine start to the new season with a hard earned 94-86 away success.
Both teams took advantage of the friendly status of the match to strengthen up with guest riders. Coventry fielded Ipswich hotshot Charlie Rumbold and Cambridge based Dan Chambers in their ranks.
Coventry were given an added boost with their inclusion of teenage stars Mason Phillips and Kyle Roberts. Phillips made his first appearance of the campaign, whilst Roberts illustrated his continued zest for the pedal sport by travelling all the way to Norwich, despite several motor Speedway demands.
Kyle Roberts has been back in the saddle after a year out. Photo by Ray Andrews.
After a shared heat 1, Coventry took the lead in heat 2. Roberts sprinted away to take heat 3 before the ace gating youngster crashed in heat 7 whilst contesting the lead.
Late first half wins to Australian ace Bobby McMillan, and Rumbold and Chambers, ensured Coventry led 46-44 at the interval.
The first five heats of the second period were drawn, as Norwich put up tremendous resistance on a superbly prepared track – its long straights providing the perfect platform for riders seeking early season fitness.
The run of shared heats was broken in heat 15. Roberts again hit the front for Coventry but young debutant Ben Wells superbly burst through on the final lap to put Coventry four points up.
Hot Coventry prospect, Ben Wells (left), impressed on his first team debut. Photo by Ray Andrews.
Phillips, after a tepid start, roused himself with two excellent late wins as Coventry eventually ensured an eight-point win with all the team contributing to their latest success.
Coventry points scorers:
Charlie Rumbold 19, Bobby McMillan 18, Dan Chambers 16, Kyle Roberts 13, Mason Phillips 12, Ben Wells 8, Ollie Morris 5 and Sammi Marsh 3.
The first home Elite league match of the season at Hearsall Common will be on Sunday, 3rd April, when Ipswich will provide the powerful opposition. The tapes will rise at 2pm to herald in the new Elite League era.
Coventry team against Norwich at Hearsall Common (minus Dominik Rycharski). Photo by Ray Andrews.
Coventry continue to stage their very popular `Clubnight` practice sessions every Wednesday night, from 6pm. The sessions are open to youngsters keen to have a go at the fast and exciting sport of Cycle Speedway. Bikes and safety equipment are available free of charge to first time newcomers.
For more information on Coventry Cycle Speedway club, please go to: www.coventrycyclespeedway.co.uk