MATCH REPORT: Monarchs are no match for youthful Eagles as Ipswich progress to KO Cup Semi Finals

Without any weak links in their youthful line up Ipswich proved too strong for a spirited Leicester side.

The Monarchs kept the scores close until a heat seven exclusion to the otherwise unbeaten Hemsley opened up the visitors advantage to nine points, a similar fate befell Frith in the pre-interval race, albeit in more controversial circumstances.

With the match appearing to be safe, Ivan Pike gave spirited reserve Ben Harvey a couple of extra rids in the second half, resting the impressive Brooke and Chittock for a ride each.

It’s fair to say that all of the Ipswich riders can be happy with their efforts today, each gave 100% and rode hard but in a very fair and sporting manner.

Leicester gave a debut to young Max Wells whilst his partner at reserve, super vet Steph Whitehead, made a rare appearance to fill in at short notice.

Mike Baldock made his racing comeback after surgery and was feeling the pace a little and Matt Hartshorn looked far better than his score may suggest. Much like Ipswich the rest of the team were always there or thereabouts.

Leicester 80

Dave Hemsley 16, Mike Baldock 11, Craig Marchant 15+2, Matt Hartshorn 5, Dave Frith 6+1, Kev Burns 17, Max Wells 5, Steph Whitehead 5

Ipswich 98

Ashley Hill 9+3, Richrad Felgate 17, Dan Knights 9+2, Josh Brooke 15, Charlie Rumbold 14+1, Jamie Chittock 12+2, Ben Harvey 13, Matt Hill 9+1