WEEKEND PREVIEW: Still much to be decided in final weekend of regional action
Two titles are up for grabs this weekend, the Midland League and South and South Wales League are yet to be decided. We start the round up in the Midlands, where Chris Timms’ men have one hand on the title…
Midland League
Birmingham v Leicester
Wednesfield v East Park
It’s crunch time in the Midland League. If Birmingham win, they win the title. If Birmingham lose and East Park win, the title goes to the Wolverhampton team. Birmingham could also lose the title with a draw and an East Park win. The West Midland Monarchs slipped up against Wednesfield Aces last time out, losing their first match of the season. Leicester have struggled with first team riders in recent weeks, perhaps former World beater, Dave Hemsley, could make another appearance for the East Midland Monarchs? East Park will have to be at their very best to defeat the Aces, who have come super strong since getting back to full strength in all competitions, can East Park stake a claim for the title?
Northern League
Astley & Tyldesley v Sheffield
Hull v Edinburgh
Stockport v Bury
Northumbria v Heckmondwike
Stockport still have a match in hand after this weekend against Hull, but have already sown up the title after a dominating season once again. Bury have mostly been consistent throughout the season, it will be a big result to take something away from Stockport, if they are at full strength. Sheffield face A&T at Gin Pit. The Rockets should have done enough to finish second by beating Hull last week and their points differences is greater than third placed side, Edinburgh. The Falcons have one final long haul trip to make to closest rivals Hull, any points for them will secure third place, where as Hull could steal it from them if they beat their opponents and then Stockport next week. The final match gives Heckmondwike one final chance to get some points on the board against Northumbria at Cramlington.
South East League
Great Blakenham v Ipswich Eagles
Hethersett v Norwich
Ipswich Whirlwinds v Kesgrave
Ipswich Whirlwinds have also wrapped up their South East League title a few weeks back and welcome Kesgrave for their final battle of the season. Hethersett should have done enough to claim the second spot after their win against Great Blakenham last week, a victory against their Neighbours Norwich will certainly cement that position. The Eagles are away to Great Blakenham, who have already done enough to keep off the bottom of the table, with East London losing their final outing last week.
South and South Wales League
Exeter v Newport
Southampton v Poole
It’s been a little while since we had an updated table from the South and South Wales League (if anyone has one that would be great!). Newport and Poole were running away with it back then. Both are in action away from home this weekend and will be expected to claim victories. If Newport do so, they will retain their title, if not, a victory against Horspath will secure it for them, if Poole are victorious against Southampton.
Saturday Action
TA Security SE Women & Girls Individual Championships – Norwich
SE Open & Junior Knockout Cup Fours – Norwich
There are three events taking place tomorrow (Saturday). Wednesfield host the final round of Eurovets action, where over 40s, 50s and 60s champions will be crowned. Norwich host the TA Security South East Women and Girls Individual Championships and the South East Open and Junior Knockout Cup Fours, at 12 noon and 1pm respectively.
Good luck to all riders, in what is the last major weekend of Cycle Speedway of the 2014 season.