Speedway Warriors Boss Expecting ‘Really Tough Task’

This week’s track action at the Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde sees the unbeaten Wightlink Warriors facing off against the heavy-hitting Heathens from Cradley in leg 1 of The Vince Mapley Memorial Trophy.

Warriors positive start to the season will be put under close examination by the visitors who have lined up high scoring Steve Boxall (deputising for Alfie Bowtell), Connor Coles and all action Lee Complin to lead their attack.

Former Warrior Chris Widman will be making a welcome return to the Island albeit for the Heathens who also name Chris Watts in their team, seemingly none the worse after his dramatic fall towards the end of last week’s meeting.

Completing the sextet is Jacob Clouting who also impressed seven days ago.

It will be ‘backs-to-the wall’ stuff for the Warriors who have Ben Morley absent because of work commitments.

His place will be taken by Jake Turner (pictured) with regulars Brayden McGuinness, George Congreve, Arran Butcher, and Chad Wirtzfeld also on the team sheet and being asked to dig deep for this meeting.

Warriors sixth rider has yet to be announced at the time of writing.

Wightlink Warriors co-owner Barry Bishop said:

“Cradley have taken every opportunity to stitch together their side in such a way as to put us under pressure from the off.

"Without Ben we will undoubtedly be at a disadvantage so we need as much vocal support as we can muster to help the boys on track tackle a really tough task.”

As well as the pre-meeting demonstration races, there will also be a training fixture between the Wightlink Wizards and Weymouth Wildcats.

Gates open at Smallbrook at 5.15pm with the demonstration races at 6.10pm followed by the main event at 7pm.

Pre-booking is not needed with admission by cash or card on the evening.