MATCH REPORT: Vikings sit in fourth

Heckmondwike travelled north with just three riders, the home side supplying four guests.

Northumbria had their own problems, with number one Gavin Parr missing, he is still recovering from a speedway related injury. He still played his part by refereeing the meeting.

Despite not racing since 3 July, the result was never in doubt, as Northumbria powered to a a 30 point victory. No heats were lost along the way, and the home side had just three last places.

Northumbria’s top six were all well into double figures, led by a magnificent 20 point maximum from Jason Keith. Dean Douglas had his best meeting of the reason, paid for 18.

Heckmondwike understandably struggled, Darren Kent had a poor day by his standards, including coming to grief chasing Douglas. Mick Knowles of course never gave up, but couldn’t get a heat win.

Tom Kent was much improved getting two wins in his 12 points. Northumbria face a much more difficult September, racing away at Bury and Stockport.

This win at least leaves Northumbria in fourth place in Northern League Division 1.

Northumbria 90
Mick Parr 12 (4), Shane Gray 10+2(5), Jason Keith 20 (5), Terry Kirkup 10+3(4), Dan Redshaw 13+2(5), Dean Douglas 17+1(5), Keith Oldham 3+1(1), Lee Redshaw 5(2).

Heckmondwike 38
Darren Kent 13+1, Tom Kent 12, Mick Knowles 13, Andy Knowles (guest) 6+1, Scott Latimer (guest) 7, Dan Thompson (guest) 4 (3), Jordan Smith (guest) 5 (2).

Guest scores deducted from total