Fixtures

2008 Fixture List (for Match Reports scroll down)

STARTING TIMES.........2pm unless stated

March 9th          Exeter (H)                         SWL          98 - 79

March 16th        Horspath (A)                     Prem          84 - 87

March 23rd        Filton (A)                         SWL           91 - 83

March 30th        Gt.Blakenham (H)            Prem        103 - 73

April 6th            Swindon (H)                     SWL          87 - 90

April 13th          Leicester (A)                    Prem          99 - 78

April 20th          East Newport (A)             SWL           85 - 91

April 27th          Norwich (H)                     Prem         100 -75

May 11th           Horspath (A)                   SWL           90 - 89

May 18th           Wednesfield (A)               Prem          93 - 83

May 25th           The "ADE GALE LAURELS"

Jun 1st              Southampton (A)              SWL           86 - 92

Jun 8th             Gt.Blakenham (A)             BTC           115 - 56

Jun 15th            Sheffield (H)                     Prem           80 - 93

Jun 22nd           Hellingly (H)                     SWL          101 - 77

Jun 29th            Horpath (H)                        PL             97 -79

July 13th            Gt.Blakenham (A)            Prem          97 - 81

July 20th            Horspath (H)                     SWL          89 - 88

Aug 3rd              Leicester (H)                     Prem

Aug 17th            Norwich (A)                      Prem

Aug 23-25           BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIPS WEEKEND

Aug 30th            Southampton (H)               SWL

Aug 31st             Hellingly (A)                     SWL

Sept 7th              Wednesfield (H)                 Prem

Sept 14th            Exeter (A)                          SWL

Sept 21st            Newport (A)                       SWL

Oct 5th               Sheffield (A)                      Prem

Oct 12th             East Newport (H)                SWL

Oct 19th             Swindon (A)                      SWL

2008 MATCH REPORTS

July 20th Poole 89 Horspath 88

This was a nailbiting SWL fixture between two well balanced teams and where the lead changed constantly as fortunes fluctuated. Poole lead for most of the first half but immediately after the break the visitors notched a 7 - 3 and threatened to pull away as they sought to avenge a home loss against Poole earlier in the year. A tapes exclusion in heat 12 handed the initiative back to Poole who banged in a 7 - 2 to lead 61 - 58. Another Horspath maximum in race 14 enabled them to move back in front but Poole got out of jail in the next after a vintage pass by Rich Clanfield on Matt Szymczak who was then excluded for impeding Luke Armes. Heat 16 finished all square leaving the scoeline 80 - 78 with two heats remaining. With the visitors looking strong in the final race, there was relief in heat 17 when another Horspath tapes exclusion gifted Poole a 6 - 3 and an unassailable 86 - 81 lead with the visitors last heat 7 - 3 proving somewhat academic. With Karol Wlodarczyk sidelined by injury and other seniors unavailable, this was a closer than anticipated result but a great advert for regional league racing.

Scorers - Aaron Lowey 18+1,Ben Donohue 15+2,Rich Clanfield 14,Sam Hearn 12+1,Jake Williams 11+1,Kev Lowman 9+2,Aaron Morgan 5+1,Luke Armes 5.

In the SW Conference match credit to both clubs as they tracked a full 8 rider team with Poole having the edge in terms of age and experience and winning by 93 - 57.

Scorers - Matt Elston 16, Leyton Glover 15+1, Aidan Hedgecock 14, Jessie Lamb 11+1, Arron Morgan 10+2, Mike Buczak 10, Tom Ebel 9, David Buczak 8.

July 13th Gt.Blakenham 97 Poole 81

With only two of the top 8 PL squad available for this match, this was a highly respectable scoreline against the Suffolk side who are notoriously hard to beat on their own circuit. The dry conditions were not conducive to good racing but the early heats were even and the scores would have been level at the interval but for an unlucky puncture suffered by Aaron Lowey whilst leading. Thomas Reed was once again a class act and hats off to Exeter clubmate Dom McCrae for five action packed races. There was some vintage stuff too from Dave Murphy with his best return of the season. After the break the home side pulled away to record the expected win and even a full strength Poole side would have had their work cut out to bring home the PL points.

Scorers; Thomas Reed 19, Dave Murphy 14+1, Dominic McCrae 12+2, Ben Donohue 11+2, Sam Hearn 9+1, Aaron Lowey 8, Kev Lowman 5+1, Luke Armes 3.

In the Division 2 match the home side tracked an older and more experienced team although Britain's top two Under 13 riders Matt Mildon and Arron Morgan made a good impression but the final scoreline of 90 - 57 tells all.

Scorers: Matt Mildon 10+1, Arron Morgan 10, Luke Armes 8, Jess Lamb 5, Mike Buzak 5, Leyton Glover 5.

June 29th Poole 97 Horspath 79

Dominic McRae wins his first race for Poole at Baiter Park in heat 15

Despite a depleted line-up compared with the season opener away to the Hammers, the visitors provided stubborn resistance with only 8 points separating the sides at the half-way stage. Highlights for Poole included a race win for Dom McRae on his home PL debut for Poole and a greatly improved performance for Aaron Lowey after his disappointing match against Sheffield. Lowey was the only home rider to lower the colours of Lewis Osborne in heat 7 while Dave Murphy was on the pace with two wins and Thomas Reed also had some lively tussles with the visitors big four. Chris Roberts and Gavin Wheeler were in the thick of the action as always, providing another healthy crowd with plenty of entertainment during their four rides apiece.

Scorers - Aaron Lowey 17, Thomas Reed 16+1, Chris Roberts 13+1, Dave Murphy 12, Gavin Wheeler 11+2, Tom Colling 11+2, Ben Donohue 9+2, Dominic McRae 8.

At half-time during the PL match, Matthew Mildon and Arron Morgan rode a lap of honour with their gold and silver medals from the previous day's British U.13 Championship and it was a great touch to see all the senior riders from both teams out on the track to lead the generous applause for these two highly promising young riders.

Division 2 result - Poole 79 Horspath 50

Scorers: Matt Mildon 12+4, Jake Williams 12, Matt Elston 11+1, Kev Lowman 10+2, Aidan Hedgecock 10, Arron Morgan 10, Same Hearn 7, Tom Ebel 7.

June 22nd Poole 101 Hellingly 77

Poole Seaview Coaches South West League team

This match provided conclusive evidence of the value of the regular Tuesday evening Clubnight sessions as the talented trio of Sam Hearn, Jake Williams and Aidan Hedgecock played a prominent part in heat victories on the way to this convincing victory against South coast rivals Hellingly.

Experienced heat leaders Karol Wlodarczyk, Ben Donohue and Aaron Lowey dropped their only points to the two Hollebon brothers who once again lead the way for the Lions. Aaron's total was restricted by a blank in his fifth ride after a first bend tumble suffered whilst trying to become the first Poole rider to lower the colours of Neil Hollebon who went on to record a six ride maximum tally. Luke Armes and Kevin Lowman weighed in with solid scores in this all round team performance.

Scorers - Ben Donohue 17+2, Karol Wlodarczyk 17+1, Aaron Lowey 13+2, Kev Lowman 13+1, Sam Hearn 13, Jake Williams 12+1, Luke Armes 9+3, Aidan Hedgecock 7.

Division 2 - Poole 51 Hellingly 27

Arron Morgan scorched to 3 race wins on his team debut for Poole and there was a promising start too for Michael Buczak who has only been racing for a couple of weeks.

Scorers - Alex McLeod 14+2, Arron Morgan 12, Tom Ebel 11, Matt Elston 8+3, Michael Buczak 6.

June 15th Poole 80 Sheffield 93

Heat 11 - controversially re-started when Poole on a 7-3 win

As soon as the visitors turn a 6 - 4 opening heat reversal into a 7 - 3 maximum win, things looked ominous for Poole but after the first 7 races only one point separated the sides. Then disaster struck with Gavin Wheeler receiving his marching orders as he tried valiantly to fend off a passing move by Marcin Szymanski. A Stars 7 - 2 in the re-start put them in the driving seat with a 40 - 47 interval lead after Rich Clanfield was excluded at the tapes in the 9th.

Heat 10 was shared but Poole sensed a chance in heat 11 (pictured) as Gavin Wheeler and Chris Roberts clearly outgated the visiting pair who literally threw their bikes on the deck, but referee Colin Simmons disappointingly called all 4 back. Roberts was excluded in the re-start leaving Wheeler to face the two Stars alone. Further disaster struck when Gavin sheared a pedal arm at the gate turning what started as a 7 - 3 win into a 7 - 0 reversal. Game over at 45 - 59 which would have been 52 - 55 if the original race start had been allowed to continue as everyone on the blue side of the pits strongly felt. A glimpse of what might have been in heats 14 and 15 saw a Roberts/Clanfield 7- 3 followed up with a similar score from the two Saints Wheeler and Colling but Sheffield stopped the rot with a fine win from Andy Angell - the best of the Brit riders on show - and another share of the spoils in the penultimate race.

For the second season running, luck seemed to desert Poole in their encounter with the Stars although with World Champion Szymanski once again showing his liking for the Harbourside circuit with an unbeaten 19+1, it would have taken a top class performance by all 8 home riders to clinch the league points in this one. Despite the obvious disappointment, this was a top class showpiece event which once again underlined the status of the Premier League as the pinacle of team competitions. Congratulations to Sheffield for their victory.

Scorers: Artur Poprawski 14+1, Thomas Reed 13+1, Pavel Cegielski 12, Chris Roberts 11+1, Tom Colling 9+1, Aaron Lowey 8, Gavin Wheeler 7+1, Richard Clanfield 6+1.

Division 2 - Poole 72 Sheffield 62 ( Sam Hearn 14, Karol Wlodarczyk 12, Kev Lowman 11, Jake Williams 9, Aidan Hedgecock 8, Luke Armes 6, Jessie Lamb 4, Matt Elston 4.)

June 8th Gt Blakenham 115 Poole 56

When it comes to a bad day at the cycle speedway office, they dont come any worse than this. With Aaron Lowey sidelined through suspension for an offence 9 months ago (!) and track expert Andre cross injured, the last thing the team wanted was a bad start but with captain Chris Roberts excluded in his first outing and given a highly dubious match ban in his second, it was game over. In truth the hosts were always favourites to win on their own circuit and monopolised the race wins while Poole did likewise in the exclusion stakes by 5 - 0, something which will require detailed feedback to the CS Commission in view of the serious nature of the perceived refereeing inadequacies. Although this BTC competition is not what it once was, it is steeped in history and Poole remains the most successful club....maybe 2009 will be the time to remind ourselves and everyone else of that fact. Meantime, good luck to Blakenham, they would be worthy winners this season.

Scorers - Chris Shylock 11, Dave Murphy 11, Sam Hearn 9+1, Rich Clanfield 9+1, Ben Donohue 6+2, Kev Lowman 6, Luke Armes 4, Chris Roberts 0.

June 1st Southampton 86 Poole 92

Chris Shylock leading heat 8

Poole chalked up another valuable away win at Winchester Road against the Saints who missed their ex-British Champion Colin Wheeler who was ill. Although always in the lead, Poole were made to fight all the way with the big circuit suiting the powerhouse racing style of Sam Hearn who lead the scorechart alongside Aaron Lowey. Karol Wlodarczyk took a nasty tumble but recovered to complete the remainder of his races.

Scorers - Aaron Lowey16+2, Sam Hearn 16+1, Chris Shylock 15+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 13+1, Jake Williams 10+3, Kev Lowman 8+2, Luke Armes 8+2, Jess Lamb 6.

Division 2 - Southampton 64 Poole 72 (Inc penalty points).

Aidan Hedgecock 12, Matt Elston 9+1, Tom Ebel 7+2, Kev Lowman 7+2, Jake Williams 4.

May 25th Ade Gale "LAURELS"

Marcin Szymanski powers ahead of Tom Colling, Gavin Wheeler and Lee Aris in ht 8

Top three in the 2008 Laurels - l to r Aaron Lowey, Karol Szymanski and Gavin Wheeler

See British Cycling website for more action shots of the "LAURELS"

World champion Marcin Szymanski retained the Ade Gale Laurels trophy with an immaculate twenty point maximum at Harbourside Park in front of a healthy bank holiday crowd. The Sheffield and Leszno star led from start to finish in all his races and was boosted by drawing inside grids against all his principle rivals. Runner up was Gavin Wheeler with a powerhouse display of riding which saw him drop his only point to Szymanski while 3rd place went to Aaron Lowey who was a point ahead of British Champion Lee Aris on 17 points.

Heat 8 saw the big guns clashing with Szymanski on gate 2 heading home Wheeler and Aris who were both on his outside. In heat 11 Lowey made a valiant effort to round the Polish star from gate 4 but tracked him for 4 laps without quite getting close enough to find a gap. Adam Peck and Thomas Reed tried to make life difficult for Szymanski in heat 17 but were unable to stop the defending champion from gating round the pair for a title clinching victory.

Scorers - Marcin Szymanski 20, Gavin Wheeler 19, Aaron Lowey 17, Lee Aris 16, Adam Peck 15, Mitchell Spear 14, Chris Osborne 13, Darius Pilas 12, Lewis Osborne 12, Craig Marchant 12, Chris Jewkes 10, Thomas Reed 9, Karol Wlodarczyk 9, Chris Roberts 7, Tom Colling 7, Kev Lowman 6. (Referee Mike Legge)

A great curtain raiser in the Junior Laurels culminated in a race-off between Mitchell Spear and Thomas Reed who tied on 19 points apiece. The Sheffield based Aussi came under intense pressure from the young Exeter star after leading from gate 2 and held his nerve to clinch the major silverware.

Scorers - Mitchell Spear 19, Thomas Reed 19. Ashley Birks 18, Ben Mould 17, Jamie Brown 15, Ryan Hoyland 15, Tom Colling 14, Craig Nethercott 14, Jake Williams 12, Sam Hearn 12, Luke Armes 9, Aidan Hedgecock 8, Matt Mildon 8, Tom Ebel 5, Aaron Morgan 5. (Referee Dave Dart)

May 18th Wednesfield 93 Poole 83

Ashmore Park continues to be a less than happy hunting ground for Poole who were unable to match Premier League frontrunners Sheffield and Leicester either by fielding their strongest team or picking up two valuable league points. Nevertheless, the team battled hard and were unlucky not to stage a late rally after the misfortune of a 7 - 2 reversal in heat 13. Gavin Wheeler was having one of his best matches to date for Poole but fell victim to a tapes exclusion when on gates 1 & 3 leaving team partner Tom Colling to face the home pair alone with disastrous consequences when rather than a potential 7 - 3 in their favour a maximum reversal was the outcome. But for that, a last heat decider could have been the outcome.

Dominic McCrae made his Premier debut and after a nervous start which included a tapes exclusion, he bounced back to win a heat and showed great potential. With captain Chris Roberts unavailable, Ben Donohue and Karol Wlodarczyk both unfit and Artur Poprawski racing in Poland, the team was always likely to be up against it but some consolation came after the match when top British Cycling referee Mike Hack praised the club for the way in which they conducted themselves throughout the procedings, in marked contrast to some of the things happening elsewhere of late!

Scorers: Aaron Lowey 15+1, Gavin Wheeler 15, Thomas Reed 13, Rich Clanfield 12+1, Tom Colling 12, Dominic McCrae 7, Dave Murphy 5, Chris Shylock 4+1.

Division 2 - The young up and coming team Poole octet battled hard against the powerful and experienced (!) Midland six-man combo unit and will learn a lot from what was the first visit to this venue in most cases.

Wednesfield 80 Poole 49: Scorers Sam Hearn 11, Jake Williams 10, Luke Armes 7, Alex McLeod 6, Kev Lowman 5+1, Aiden Hedgecock 5, Matt Elston 3, Tom Ebel 2

May 11th: Horspath 90 Poole 89

This was a close and sporting encounter ridden in good spirit with a last heat decider with a Poole team tracking a blend of youth and experience. A succession of drawn heats was broken by a Horspath 6 - 4 just before the break, giving them a 46 - 44 lead which was extended in heat 10 with a 7 - 3. Aaron Lowey and Jessie Lamb team up for a vital 7 - 2 in heat 14 over Polish star Denis Augustinski to put Poole right back in the hunt. A good 6 - 4 from Chris Shylock and Sam Hearn in the penultimate race put the scores at 85 - 84 with the spotlight falling on Aaron Lowey and Kev Lowman in a last heat decider.

The hosts tracked Steve Harris and Dave Carmichael off gates 1 and 3 and while Aaron shot straight from the tapes to lead, the home duo shut up shop to draw the race and win the match by the narrowist of margins.

Scorers - Chris Shylock 17, Aaron Lowey 16+2, Rich Clanfield 15+1, Sam Hearn 11+1, Jake Williams 9+3, Kev Lowman 8+1, Jessie Lamb 8, Luke Armes 5+2.

Conference League: Horspath 63 Poole 87 ( Aiden Hedgecock 20, Matt Elston 16, Tom Ebel 14+2, Sam Hearn 13+3, Leyton Glover 13+1, Phil Norwood 8+3, Jake Williams 3 (1 ride).

April 27th Poole 100 Norwich 75

7-3 to Poole as Karol Wlodarczyk leads heat 14 with Ben Donohue

With Thomas Reed in action for Exeter and a full programme of Polish league matches sidelining the club's overseas stars, Poole called on Richard Clanfield for his first match of the season and despite minimal training, he did not let the side down with a "paid" 13 tally from 4 rides. He would have earned unofficial the man of the match award had it not been for an outstanding performance from Karol Wlodarczyk who returned his best Premier performance for Poole with four brilliant rides yielding 13+2 mostly earned the hard way.

Aaron Lowey gave cause for concern with a heavy tumble which gave him a nasty knock to the head in heat 2 but he bounced back with four fine race wins matching the performance of team captain Chris Roberts who also took 16 from 4 outings thanks to some powerhouse gating. Tom Colling dropped only one point from 3 first half races but his fortunes dropped off after the break.

Dave Murphy stepped up a gear or two from the Blakenham match taking a paid 11 tally from his four races. Ben Donohue was good value for his 11+1 especially as he has been carrying an injury which will shortly require a period of hospitalisation. Gavin Wheeler dropped points at the tapes in heat 6 but looked classy in his other races as this all round team performance took the points from a lively Norwich team whose efforts were not reflected in the final scoreline.

Scorers: Chris Roberts 16, Aaron Lowey 16, Gavin Wheeler 14, Karol Wlodarczyk 13+2, Tom Colling 11+2, Ben Donohue 11+1, Rich Clanfield 10+3, Dave Murphy 9+2.

Division 2 - Poole 63 Norwich 64: Scorers Sam Hearn 15, Jake Williams 12, Luke Armes 10, Aiden Hedgecock 9, Jessie Lamb 8, Kev Lowman 8, Matt Elston 1.

April 20th: East Newport 85 Poole 91

A close encounter with the match outcome in doubt up to the closing heats saw Poole take their first win on the road in the SWL at the expense of the lively Welsh opposition. Aaron Lowey cruised to a bonus maximum while Jake Williams earned the unofficial man of the match award with a highly polished performance on the tricky circuit. The track also suited Karol Wlodarczyk who was mounted on brand new equipment and what a difference it made.

Scorers: Aaron Lowey 19+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 17, Jake Williams 16+1, Ben Donohue 14+2, Luke Armes 10, Sam Hearn 9, Jessie Lamb 3, Kev Lowman 3.

Division 2 - E.Newport 43 Poole 41 Scorers - Matt Elston 11 Tom Ebel 9, Aiden Hedgecock 8+1, Phil Norwood 7+2.

Conference - E.Newport 52 Poole 98. Scorers - Jake Williams 19+1, Sam Hearn 18+2, Jessie Lamb 17+2, Matt Elston 16+3, Aiden Hedgecock 16+2, Tom Ebel 12.

April 13th: Leicester 99 Poole 78

Despite having to track a depleted line-up, Poole turned in a respectable performance against a full strength Leicester side. Full marks to rookie reserves Sam Hearn and Alex McLeod for their wholehearted efforts as they were both thrown in at the deep end for their first ever Premier League match. Aaron Lowey was hampered by an exclusion for race slowing but as usual between these two teams, racing was sporting and enjoyable. Artur Poprawski notched four wins and took the scalps of all the home stars while Gavin Wheeler is well on the way back to top form.

On a day of unpredicatble results with Sheffield winning by 2 at Horspath and defending champions Wednesfield surprisingly losing by the same margin at Great Blakenham, it looks look the title favourites are now Sheffield with Leicester and Poole the likely challengers. Roll on June 15th when the Yorkshire club visits Harbourside Park!

Scorers; - Artur Poprawski 18, Gavin Wheeler 14+1, Aaron Lowey 10+1, Ben Donohue 9+1, Karol Wlodarcyzk 9, Dave Murphy 7, Alex McCleod 7, Sam Hearn 4.

Division2: Leicester 81 Poole 49 - Sam Hearn 14, Aiden Hedgecock 10, Kev Lowman 7+2, Jessie Lamb 7, Alex McLeod 6, Luke Armes 5.

Poole v Swindon heat 7 - Aaron and Sam in action

April 6th 2008: Poole 87 Swindon 90

This match between two evenly balanced teams swung in favour of the visitors in races either side of the interval when Jake Williams picked up an exclusion in heat 9 and Luke Armes failed to secure a re-run a race later when left sprawled on the first bend. Swindon had the greater experience in their middle order as several times the home youngsters lost positions due to tactical errors. Aaron Lowey was untroubled but the absence of Chris Shylock who is still on the injured list probably made the difference between victory and defeat.

Scorers: Aaron Lowey 19+1, Jarol Wlodarczyk 17, Ben Donohue 16+2, Luke Armes 10+1, Jake Williams 8, Kevin Lowman 7+2, Sam Hearn 7+1, Jessie Lamb 3.

Div 2: Poole 62 Swindon 34 (Aidon Hedgecock 13, Alex McLeod 12, Matt Elston 7, Lewis Mitchell 6, Jess Lamb 5.)

Le Crunch - Gavin Wheeler seeks 1st bend supremacy in heat 8

March 30th: Poole 103 Gt. Blakenham 73

Hats off to both teams for making a match of this on a very difficult racing surface as the newly re-laid Harbourside circuit was well below its normal standard with both bends cutting up badly. The visitors were lively in the opening heats but were hampered by two exclusions just as the re-shuffled Poole team got into its stride.

After a Josh Brooke victory over Gavin Wheeler in the second race, Adam Peck got the better of Thomas Reed in heat 5 which proved to be the Exeter based rider's only defeat of the day. Aaron Lowey looked to be back to something like his best form as he reeled off three staight wins, a feat matched by Poole captain Chris Roberts in his first match of the season.

Poole made the most of their greater experience to race to a comfortable 20 point lead by the interval but the visitors continued to put in 100% effort despite the scoreline.

Attempts to tyre pack the circuit at half time failed to significantly improve the heavy conditions in the second half as both teams battled on in front of an appreciative crowd. Adam Peck was impressive for the Suffolk side and had some good scraps with his erstwhile team mates who packed strength in depth

Scorers:- Thomas Reed 18+1, Aaron Lowey 16+2, Tom Colling 15+2, Chris Roberts 14, Gavin Wheeler 13+2, Karol Wlodarczyk 11+1, Ben Donohue 10, Dave Murphy 6.

Division 2: Poole 71 Gt.Blakenham 73 - Scorers: Kev Lowman 12, Sam Hearn 11, Aidan Hedgecock 9, Luke Armes 7+2, Matt Elstom 7, Jessie Lamb 4, Phil Norwood 4. (+17 penalty points)

March 23rd Filton 91 Poole 83

With three of the victorious line-up from the Exeter match unavailable due to the holiday weekend, Poole did very well to run the experienced Bristol outfit so close with Sam Hearn once again underlining his great potential and Aidon Hedgecock earning the unofficial man of the match awards from his team-mates for his efforts on his first team debut. Aaron Lowey and Ben Donohue were both left scratching their heads after questionable exclusions but generally the luck evened itself out and the Fliers deserved their victory.

Scorers: Aaron Lowey 18, Sam Hearn 16, Ben Donohue 13+2, Kev Lowman 10+1, Aidon Hedgecock 9, Jessie Lamb 7+1, Luke Armes 4+2, Leighton Glover 4.

NOTE: Action shots from this match can be found on the Filton CSC website.

PREMIER ACTION

New signing Marcin Paradzinski in action at Horspath

Tom Reed tops scorechart on Premier debut

March 16th: Horspath 84 Poole 87

For the second season running, Poole turned over their Southern rivals in another epic battle in predictably poor winter conditions at the tight Oxford bowl. With a 7 point lead going into the penultimate race, a share of the spoils delivered the valuable 2 points and a Hammers maximum in the final heat was too little, too late to save their day.

The new line up included the three recently announced British stars, Gavin Wheeler, Tom Colling and Thomas Reed plus the match-winning Polish star Marcin Paradzinski whose signing was kept firmly under wraps until shortly before the start. Marcin will be coming back to race in the summer along with Artur Poprawski who also figured highly in the victory.

There were gasps of admiration in heat 2 as Paradzinski shot past Mike Morgans and when Thomas Reed repeated the winning streak with the first of three race wins in the next, the quality of the winter additions was clear for all to see. A slender lead throughout the first half gave Poole a 40 - 45 interval advantage as the home side suffered 3 exclusions at the tapes.

When Lewis Osborne picked up his marching orders in heat 16 while falling under pressure from Tom Colling, Poole virtually had the points in the bag with a 7 point advantage. Top scorers Reed and Paradzindski tucked in for a tactical 5 - 5 in heat 17 and the points were in the bag.

This was a real team effort for Poole with every rider giving 100% while the Hammers were tough opposition. The real losers were the fans who stayed away due the the wintry conditions in contrast to 2007 when a similar close and exciting encounter was witnessed by hundreds on a sunny afternoon. Shame that officialdom refused the mutually agreed May date for this match and insisted on the original winter date. Those responsible clearly have little idea of what promotion of top level events is all about. Time for a re-think!

Scorers: Thomas Reed 17+1, Marcin Paradzinski 17, Artur Poprawski 15, Gavin Wheeler 9+1, Tom Colling 9+1, Aaron Lowey 8+1, Ben Donohue 8, Chris Shylock 4.

In the Division 2 fixture, Poole had the better balanced team with several of the young guns in action along with the experienced Jess lamb and Luke Armes. The 13 point victory rounded off a fine days racing for the Dorset club. Horspath 57 Poole 70 (Jake Williams 13, Luke Armes 12+3, Aiden Hedgecock 11, Sam Hearn 10+1, Jess Lamb 7+3, Matt Elstom 7+1,Phil Norwood 6,Tom Ebel 4+1.

March 9th: Poole 98 Exeter 79

After many seasons in the Junior League, Exeter made their long awaited return to SWL team racing and didnt disappoint with their twin spearhead of Thomas Reed and Dominic McCrae each winning 4 of their 5 races. Poole tracked greater experience in their top 6 with Karol Wlodarczyk turning in a convincing display and Aaron Lowey the only home rider to show Tom Reed a clean pair of wheels.

A big bonus for the home side was the form of their two reserves Jake Williams and Sam Hearn with Jake winning all 3 of his races and Sam headed only by the visitors two big names, some going in his first team debut match. Poole notched up 13 bonus points while the Devon side could console themselves with their 10 race winners. Both clubs enjoyed their day which was ridden in excellent spirit.

Karol Wlodarczyk 16+1, Chris Shylock 15+2, Kev Lowman 12+3, Ben Donohue 12+2, Aaron Lowey 12+2, Jake Williams 12, Luke Armes 10+2, Sam Hearne 9+1.

Poole 42 Exeter 38 (Div 2)

Aidan Hedgecock 16, Jessie Lamb 14+2, Matt Elston 5, Phil Norwood 5, Tom Ebel 2, Anders Rowe dnr

Poole 67 Exeter 83 (SWConference)

Jake Williams 17, Sam Hearn 12+1, Aiden Hedgecock 12, Jessie Lamb 11+1, Matt Elston 6, Lewis Mitchell 5, Tom Ebel 4.

2007 Match Reports

October 7th 2007

Poole 84 Wednesfield 92

Injury gremlins robbed Poole of any chance of a victory against the league leaders who simply had too much top end power with World Champion Marcin Syzmanski and 'rocket-gating' reserve Marcus Waddams their twin spearhead, each dropping just one point from 5 rides. Chris Roberts and Dave Murphy both had to withdraw from the match due to heavy tumbles although Murphy had to be pressed back into action late in the procedings as Poole began to run out of reserve replacements.

A tight first half saw Poole just ahead by a single point as they packed in the minor places behind visiting heat winners. A Wednesfield 7 - 3 in heat 14 followed by a 6 - 4 gave them an eight point lead and a further maximum in the penultimate race sealed the result and along with it the outcome of the league championship with next week's clash between the Aces and Horspath now a formality.

Plus points for Poole were the form of Adam Peck and two great rides from Artur Proprawski who was the only home rider to lower the colours of Waddams and Szymanski (pictured). Aussie duo Dan Pudney and team captain Brad Hoppo rounded off their two seasons at Poole with a last heat 7 - 3 which brought the curtain down on their time here in the best possible way.

Although there were no league honours at stake, Poole nevertheless missed their Polish duo of Lukasz Jozwiak and Pavel Cegielski whose presence would have doubtless swung the match in the other direction. That rather sums up the latter part of the season with key riders missing for the last three PL home fixtures which were all narrowly lost.

Once again this was a well attended match and a great advert for Premier League racing between two of the sports' top clubs.Special praise for referee Colin Simmons who stood in for the unavailable Ian Sizer at the last minute and did a first class job.

Scorers: Adam Peck 16+1, Daniel Pudney 16+1, Artur Proprawski 15+2, Brad Hoppo 13+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 8, Ben Donohue 7, Chris Roberts 5+2, Dave Murphy 4.

Division 2 - Poole 59 Wednesfield 69

Scorers: Ben Donohue 16+2, Andre Cross 15, Kev Lowman 9, Jessie Lamb 9, Jake Williams 8, Rich Chappell 2.

September 23rd 2007: Leicester 84 Poole 91

Victory in their final PL away fixture of the season saw Poole chalk up the double over the East Midlanders with a workmanlike performance headlined by in-form Adam Peck who dropped just one point in five rides - showing just how costly his absence was from the line up against Horspath a fortnight ago. With a single point lead at the half way stage Poole moved to an 8 point advantage after 16 races and the margin could have been greater but for 2 exclusions for Lukasz Jozwiak.

Scorers - Adam Peck 18+1, Daniel Pudney 16, Artur Proprawski 15, Brad Hoppo 11+2, Pavel Cegielski 9+1, Dave Murphy 9, Lukasz Jozwiak 9, Ben Donohue 4.

September 16th 2007: Poole 100.5 Filton 77.5

With their normal secondary registration support riders unavailable, the league newcomers arranged day contracts with Poole for Matt Chappell, Luke Armes, Jake Burns and Jake Williams who amassed a 31 point contribution between them in an entertaining SWL encounter. Unbeaten returns from Karol Wlodarczyk and Artur Proprawski formed the basis of the home win and Chris Shylock notched up three wins in his best match since returning to Poole colours. Lewis Mitchell made his first team debut at just 12 years of age and took a respectable 5 points.

Scorers: Artur Proprawski 18+2, Karol Wlodarczyk 18+2, Chris Shylock 15+1, Kev Lowman 14+1, Ben Donohue 13+1, Rich Chappell 12+2, Jess Lamb 5.5, Lewis Mitchell 5.

S.W.Conference 80 - 69

September 9th 2007: Poole 88 Horspath 89

Hats off to the Oxford club who were determined to avenge the home defeat at the hands of Poole in June which cost them any realistic chance of holding on to the league championship. As with the previous home slip-up against Sheffield, the referee seemed to come down harder on Poole than the visitors with 3 exclusions to zero in a fiery match which simmered along as these two giants battled head to head.

The home lineup missed Adam Peck who is usually worth double figures at Baiter but top end power from the Hammers trio of Boaler, Szynczak and Swowronek was probably the telling factor. There was a pleasing return to the saddle from Aaron Lowey but what a match to choose for your first of the season!

With 8 international riders on view, this match was the perfect answer to those who might favour restrictions - 18 heats of scintilating league racing at the very highest level - just what the Premier League was set up for and another healthy attendance showed their full appreciation as both teams completed a joint lap of honour after heat 18.

Scorers - Daniel Pudney 16+2, Pavel Cegielski 15, Artur Proprawski 13+1, Lukasz Jozwiak 12+1, Brad Hoppo 11, Aaron Lowey 10+2, Dave Murphy 6, Chris Roberts 5,

Div 2 - Poole 69 Horspath 60 (Ben Donohue 13, Karol Wlodarczyk 10, Jake Burns 10, Kev Lowman 9, Jake Williams 8+4, Luke Armes 7+2, Richard Chappell 6+3, Lewis Mitchell 6+2.)

August 19th 2007: Poole 85 Sheffield 88

Everything that could possibly go wrong went wrong for Poole in this shock home reversal against an ultra competitive and jubilant Sheffield team who could hardly believe their luck. A catalogue of untimely bike problems and four race exclusions meant that the visitors were almost out of sight on 50 - 37 at the interval. Poole pulled back 10 points after the break but left themselves too much to do without their scheduled number 4 Mark Everingham who failed to arrive for the match and let his team mates and club supporters down badly.

Scorers - Brad Hoppo 16+3, Artur Poprawski 14, Adam Peck 13, Ben Donohue 11+1, Daniel Pudney 11+1, Dave Murphy 9, Chris Roberts 7+1, Kev Lowman 4.

August 12th 2007: Poole 91 Horspath 84

This was a close and lively encounter with Poole having the better balanced side but every time they drew 10 points clear, the visitors hit back with tactical rides from their big 3 and use of the inside gates rule.

Artur Poprawski was again in scintilating form reeling off four wins but came to grief in heat 17 on a dusty first bend while attempting to pass fellow countryman Dennis Augustinski. Ben Donohue was unbeaten in his first four races with wins over the top visiting riders but he too surrendered his maximum in his final race when the match was already won.

Karol Wlodarczyk was as steady as ever and Kev Lowman rode a true captain's role. Chris Shylock came through some really tough races when the visitors used the tactical rules but he raced well for his points in only his second match for Poole this season and his first since moving back to his home town. Mention too for spririted reserve outings from Jessie Lamb and Luke Armes who played their part in an all round team performance.

Scorers - Artur Poprawski 17, Ben Donohue 16+1, Mark Everingham 13+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 12+1, Kev Lowman 12, Chris Shylock 11+1, Luke Armes 7+1, Jessie lamb 3+1.

Division 2 - Poole 66 Horspath 50 (Scorers: Rich Chappell 9+2, Jake Williams 8, Michael Day 7, Jessie Lamb 6, Leyton Glover 2, Phil Norwood 2).

August 5th 2007: Norwich 86 Poole 94

On the hottest day of the year, the long haul to Norfolk was productive with two more valuable league points collected by a changed line-up which included Jason Ashford for his first league outing of the season in Poole colours. With captain Brad Hoppo still nursing World Championship injuries and the Polish duo of Pavel Ciegelski and Lukasz Jozwiak back home on holiday, this was always going to be a tough match with the additional non-availability of Mark Everingham and Rich Clanfield.

Thankfully, the advantages of the squad system paid dividends as the team built on their 46 - 44 half time advantage to win by 8 points to maintain their title aspirations.

Scorers; Adam Peck 16+1, Artur Poprawski 16, Daniel Pudney 15, Chris Roberts 12+3, Jason Ashford 12, Dave Murphy 12, Ben Donohue 8, Karol Wlodarczyk 3+1.

Division 2: Norwich 62 Poole 66.

Currently sidelined from speedway with Sittingbourne, Andre Cross rode his first match of the season in this close away fixture...albeit just 10 minutes down the road for him.

Scorers - Kev Lowman 15, Luke Armes 13+2, Jake Williams 13+1, Jessie Lamb 11+1, Andre Cross 9+3, Phil Norwood 5.

July 15th 2007: Poole 98 Hellingly 80

This match was overshadowed by an awkward tumble to to veteren Lions rider Gary Walder who needed lengthy medical attention on track and eventually taken off to hospital with a suspected broken hip. Gary clashed with Ben Donohue on the last bend of heat 3 and both riders fell. Ben himself was injured in a later collision with a fallen opponant. Feature races were those which matched Artur Poprawski with the Hollebon brothers and although the Polish star won through on all occasions he was made to fight all the way to preserve his 20 point maximum. This was a good all-round team performance and it was great to see Chris Shylock back in action with a fine race win.

Scorers: Artur Poprawski 20, Karol Wlodarczyk 17+1, Kev Lowman 14+1, Ben Donohue 13+3, Luke Armes 11+2, Chris Shylock 10, Jake Burns 7+1, Jake Williams 6.

July 8th 2007: Southampton 75 Poole 89

Poole are through to the BTC semi-final after a hard fought and incident packed match at Winchester Road which was in doubt up to the penultimate heat. Trailing by 8 points after 4 races, the signs looked ominous until Jason Ashford sparked the Poole recovery with a storming ride in heat 6. The home side were on to yet another 7 - 3 until Jason blasted round Lee Galley only to be shoved over the outside line earning the Saints man his marching orders. Better was to follow in the 3 man re-start when Shaun Woodhouse joined Galley after another racing infringement to give Poole a maximum

7 - 0 and a 27-26 lead in the match.

Former Saint Dave Murphy used all his guile to capitalise on his gate 1 in the next but when skipper Chris Roberts, with two impressive wins already to his credit, fell while challenging the Merrick/Wheeler pairing in heat 8 the home side went back into the lead. Enter Rich Clanfield, back in the team after a recent lay-off and a classic drive under Lee Galley bringing through partner Jason Ashford for a morale boosting maximum just before the break and a match lead 40-43.

After the interval, Poole had a run of three 5-4 heat wins as the home side only tracked one finisher with two exclusions and a machine failure the cause. The Saints were beginning to lose their composure and in heat 14, when Gavin Wheeler was ruled out for a do or die last bend challenge on a resolute Dave Murphy another 5-4 moved the scoreline to 61-68.

Heat 15 saw a set back as Rich Clanfield moved at the tapes but Adam Peck showed perfect composure to win the re-start for a damage limiting 4-5 heat.

The 6 point advantage, looked distinctly under threat in heat 16 as the Colling/Galley pairing were on to a 7-3. Mark Everingham had a couple of laps to try and pass Galley but then Ben Donohue went for a gap and brought Mark through for a crucial 5 - 4 win as the hapless Saint drifted prematurely back to the pits.

The Saints could still win the match but needed two 7-3's from their big guns. The Suffolk boys Jason and Adam had other ideas and stormed to a match winning maximum heat win as Gavin Wheeler picked up his second exclusion of the day and partner Nathan Harris rode into the pits without completing 4 laps. With the match won Chris Roberts had the satisfaction of turning the tables on Shaun Woodhouse to underline an emphatic 14 point victory.

Poole were motivated by memories of that controversial defeat 12 months ago in the identical fixture and it was this together with a greater degree of racing fitness which carried them through despite the very poor track conditions. The Saints lost their heads as the match progressed and both their top stars were carded by referee Terry Ashford. With Colin Sutton and Pete Barnes running the Poole side of the contest, there was never the slightest chance of that happening to their riders although Pete did have to use some nimble footwork during one heated exchange! Every Poole rider played his part in the victory but special praise must go to Jason Ashford for his gutsy performance .

Scorers: Chris Roberts 16, Adam Peck 13+2, Ben Donohue 13+2, Jason Ashford 12+3, Dave Murphy 11, Richard Clanfield 10, Mark Everingham 9+1, Kev Lowman 5+1.

Exeter 85 Poole 59 (SW Conference)

Jake Burns 16, Luke Armes 15+1, Jake Williams 14, Michael Day 8, Leyton Glover 6.

Weymouth 66 Poole 76 (SW Conference)

Luke Armes 19, Jake Burns 17+1, Leyton Glover 15+1, Jake Williams 13+1, Michael Day 11.

June 24th 2007: Poole 94 Newport 63

The unseasonally wet weather almost put paid to this Western League match but the mounting fixture backlog in the region was the deciding factor as the 2 sides braved the elements. Hats off to all the riders for making a match of it as they fought for every point. Mark and Ben had some lively encounters with Colin Simmons while Luke Armes and Jake Burns were unbeaten in their 3 outings in the U.19 heats. Leighton Glover was the latest rider from the Tuesday evening academy to make the progression to league racing and he performed with great credit.

Poole took the points to avenge their away defeat earlier in the season but this was a victory for the Western League format which was enjoyed by all those involved - proving the doubters wrong again!

Scorers: Jnrs. Jake Williams 13, Luke Armes 12, Jake Burns 11+1, Leighton Glover 11+1, Ashley Stafford 4+1: Snrs. Mark Everingham 14+1, Ben Donohue 12+2, Kev Lowey 9, Kev Lowman 7, Phil Norwood 3.

POOLE 82 NEWPORT 68 (Conference League)

Scorers - Luke Armes 17+1, Jake Burns 17, Jake Williams 16+2, Shane Stafford 13+1, Lewis Mitchell 10+1, Leighton Glover 8+1, Ashley Stafford 1.

June 17th 2007: Hellingly 109 Poole 70

With no A or B graded riders available for racing, it was an interesting and diverse line-up which took to the track at Eastbourne including George Newman and Mike Legge who completed his single race with aplomb. In the circumstances the whole team put up a very creditable performance on a track which always poses a challenge to visiting riders.

Scorers: Kev Lowman 12+1, Luke Armes 12, Kev Lowey 11+1, Jake Burns 11, Dave Newman 11, Phil Norwood 6, George Newman 5, Mike Legge 2+1.

With the addition of penalty points, Poole won the combination match

78-88.

June 10th 2007: Sheffield 83 Poole 90

A workmanlike performance after the long trek to Yorkshire brought home another 2 away points on a track which most of the side had never seen before. Leading 41 - 46 at the half way stage, the margin may have been greater but for exclusions picked up by Lukasz Jozwiak, Brad Hoppo and Artur Proprwski. This was a victory in which every rider played a part and frustratingly with them having hit such a rich vein of form, they have to wait until August 5th for their next PL match due to the loss of Coventry and Bury although the visit of Coventry on July 15th will still go ahead as a challenge match. In the meantime with other clubs in BTC action today, Poole are now clear at the top of the PL table by 2 points ahead of rivals Wednesfield and Horspath.

Scorers: Adam Peck 15, Chris Roberts 14+1, Lukasz Jozwiak 14, Artur Proprwski 13, Daniel Pudney 11+1, Pavel Cegielski 9+2, Brad Hoppo 9+1, Mark Everingham 5.

Division 2: Sheffield 51 Poole 79

A clean sweep of all the league points on offer was achieved in the Div 2 match with too much fire power from 1 to 6 in the Poole team.

Scorers - Jessie Lamb 17+2, Dave Murphy 15+1, Kev Lowman 13+1, Jake Williams 13, Karol Wlodarczyk 12+3, Luke Armes 9+1.

New signing Artur Poprwski leads heat 11 for Poole

June 3rd 2007: Horspath 85 Poole 89

Poole snatched victory from the jaws of defeat at the tight Oxford circuit to put themselves in with a great chance of Premier League honours against a Hammers team who were defending a five year unbeaten home record. The match swung back and forth throughout the 18 heats providing a roller coaster of emotions for riders and supporters alike.

The home side were 6 up after just 3 heats but two heats later Dan Pudney joined Pavel Cegielski for a 7-3 to make the scoreline 24 - 25. Artur Proprwski won heat 7 after a difficult opening race but Brad Hoppo was unable to hold on to 2nd when another maximum looked on the cards.

A second race win from Cegieski before the break and a battling 3rd from Adam Peck generated optimism at the interval which proved short lived as the home side re-started the match with two 7-3's to get back in the driving seat. Further Hammers' race wins in heat 13 after a costly Roberts exclusion and a 6-4 against in heat 15 when Sean Rudman caught Mark Everingham napping, meant that the points were practically in the bag for the homesters at 78-70.

Then the drama unfolded in heat 16 with a costly gate one tapes exclusion for Matt Szymczak leaving Lukasz Jozwiak with a comfortable gate 2 in the re-start. A battle for 2nd place developed between Roberts and Augustini which saw Chris dumped on the deck after almost rounding his opponant and referee Bob Prince pointing to the home rider as the cause of stoppage. The 7-0 meant there was one point in it with two races to go.

Cometh the hour for Poole and new boy Poprwski produced a brilliant first bend to join partner Cegielski for a blinding 7-3 against the previously unbeaten home star Skowronek taking the scoreline to 81-84. In the final race Poole tracked their Aussi duo but the home side could still win the match with a 7-3 from the formidable pairing of Harris and Boaler off 1 & 3.

Harris held his gate 1 and Pudney was lining up an inside pass on the back straight when Boaler attempted a do or die pass on turn 3 which incurred the displeasure of referee Mr.Prince. Match won, Daniel eased off in the re-start as Poole contented themselves with a 5-4 to win by four when 3 heats earlier such a scoreline would have seemed almost impossible. A great result in a match where every rider played his part and never gave up trying.

Scorers - Dan Pudney 16+2, Lukasz Jozwiak 16, Pavel Cegielski 15, Artur Poprwski 13+1, Chris Roberts 10+2, Brad Hoppo 10+1, Adam Peck 6+1, Mark Everingham 4.

Division 2 - Horspath 72 Poole 55

This was a tough match for Poole who raced against a Horspath team which included two first team riders who rode without penalty points such are the odd rules adopted for 2007! Poole picked up a bonus point for tracking a separate side and battled hard especially young Jake Williams who experienced a baptism of fire!

Scorers - Dave Murphy 13, Karol Wlodarczyk 12+1, Luke Armes 10+1, Kev Lowman 9, Jess Lamb 6+1, Jake Williams 5.

May 27th: Ade Gale "LAURELS"

Polish riders dominated the rostrum positions in a strong International field of 24 riders with Marcin Szymanski sounding out a warning to all his rivals ahead of the 2007 World Championships. The Lezno and Wednesfield star rode unbeaten in his 4 qualifying heats then sat behind Lucasz Nowacki in the semi-final before turning up the heat in the final to pass the Leicester rider to pick up the coveted trophy. Nowacki finshed runner-up and Lucasz Jozwiak completed the whitewash with a fighting third ahead of England's best performer Mark Boaler.

Unluckiest rider was Dan Pudney who was unbeaten in his heats and looked to have clinched 2nd place behind Boaler after trailing from a difficult grid 4 only to pick up a harsh exclusion on the final bend while shutting the door on Lee Aris. The whole event was ridden in almost continuous rain and conditions were heavy but to their credit, all riders gave it 100%, the only disappointment being the absence of holder Shaun Woodhouse through injury.

Group A scorers: M.Szymanski 16, D.Pudney 16, G.Pearce 11, M.Wadhams 11, M.Winwood 10, T.Colling 10, P.Ciegelski 8, N.Hollebon 8, K.Wlodarczyk 7, B.Hoppo 7, C.Roberts 7, R.Williamson 6.

Group B scorers: L.Nowacki 16, M.Boaler 14, L.Jozwiak 13, L.Aris 12, P.Kozlowski 11, S.Rudman 10, C.Marchant 10, N.Venson 9, C.Jewkes 8, P.Mrugelski 8, K.Lowman 6, B.Donohue 2 (wdn), J.Burns (res) 2.

Semi-final 1 - L.Nowacki, M.Szymanski, G.Pearce , M.Wadhams.

Semi-final 2 - M.Boaler, L.Jozwiak, L.Aris, D.Pudney (exc).

Grand Final - M.Szymanski, L.Nowacki, L.Jozwiak, M.Boaler.

Junior Final - Ryan Taylor, Ben Mould, Thomas Reed, Lee Richardson.

Non-finalists - Mark Carmichael 8, Luke Armes 7, Jake Williams 6, Robbie Venson 5.

May 26th: England 90 Poland 85

England can consider themselves fortunate to have come away with a victory after trailing for most of the match until a controversial 7-2 from Lee Aris and Jon Birks in heat 17. With the Poles ahead by a single point, Lukasz Jozwiak was excluded for drifting wide into the first corner of the penultimate race when most present expected an all 4 back verdict. The decision from referee Ian Sizer caused mayhem and a near walk-out by the Poles as it was the first racing exclusion in an otherwise tactical but good spirited encounter.

Poland provided 13 race winners of which their star man Marcin Szymanski notched an impressive maximum, while England amassed 10 bonus points with no individual stars. It looked like Poland would snatch a draw in the final heat but Lucasz Nowacki shed a chain on the first bend allowing the host nation to pull off an unlikely victory.

England scorers: Mark Boaler 16+1, Jono Birks 14+2, Adam Peck 13+1, Phil Howells 13+1, Lee Aris 12+3, Chris Roberts 10, Chris Jewkes 7+1, Mark Everingham 5+1.

Poland scorers: Marcin Szymanski 20, Matt Szymczak 15, Lucasz Nowacki 13, Pavel Ciegelski 11+1, Pavel Kozlowski 11, Lucasz Jozwiak 9, Przemez

Mrugalski 3+1, K.Wlodarczyk 3.

May 19th: Astley & Tyldesley 71 Poole 105

The rain soaked Manchester track posed a severe test of fitness to both teams as Poole comfortably scooped the league points while the top three home riders suffered an exclusion apiece. On each of those occasions A&T suffered a maximum 7 - 2 reversal while Poole lost only one race when Pavel Ciegelski and Lukasz Jozwiak conceded a 7 - 3 in heat 8. Hopes of an Astley comeback were squashed before the interval as Mark Everingham and Dave Murphy clinched a 6 - 4 to lead 37 - 51 at the break. It was a case of cruise control in the second half as Poole kept up the pressure on a day when A&T could have done with one or two more of their established "names".

Poole scorers - Daniel Pudney 17+2, Brad Hoppo 15+3, Adam Peck 15+2, Mark Everingham 14+2, Pavel Ciegelski 14+2, Lukasz Jozwiak 12+2, Ben Donohue 10, Dave Murphy 8.

Division 2 A&T 55 Poole 73

Karol Wlodarczyk 20, Kev Lowman 14+1, Jessie Lamb 10+1, Rich Chappell 10+1, Dave Murphy 8, Ben Donohue 7+1, Phil Norwood 4.

May 6th: Poole 91 Leicester 86

This match had everything including a last heat decider and a better advert for the sport would be difficult to find with quality racing and a sporting rapport between the teams. Poole stretched out to an 8 point lead after 4 races as first Mark Newey then Mark Whitehead got their marching order at the tapes but the advantage was short lived as Lucasz Jozwiak picked up an exclusion in his second race for cutting across on Kev Burns who fell heavily leaving referee Ian Sizer little option but to award Leicester a 7-2.

A Newey/Marchant 6-4 in the next made the score 34 - 33 before Lucasz Nowacki headed home Daniel Pudney in a brilliant race and the single point margin separated the sides at the break with in-form Chris Roberts picking up the second of three race wins. Lucasz Jozwiak left Phil Howells for dust in heat 10 then lowered the colours of fellow countryman Nowacki in heat 13 with Chris Roberts tucking in for a welcome 6 - 4 only to be cancelled out by a 6 - 4 Leicester in the next just when a drawn race looked to be in the bag. Racing throughout and the crowd were captivated as fortunes fluctuated.

The score stood at 69-68 with 4 races to go and the spoils were shared in the next with Daniel Pudney once again untouchable but Poole let slip a 6-4 in heat 16 when Adam Peck relinquished 3rd place to Phil Howells. After a quiet match skipper Brad Hoppo stormed past Craig Marchant to win heat 17 at a vital time just when a Leicester heat win threatened to give them the lead for the first time.

So the match was finely balanced at 84 - 83 and the crowd were on the edge of their seats as the two Poole big guns Pudney and Jozwiak took on Nowacki and Newey. Pudney rounded Newey from grid 2 and held the lead for a couple of laps under intense pressure from Nowacki while Jozwiak tried all he knew to pass Newey which he succeded in doing on lap 3 only for both riders to fall heavily with the Leicester man judged to be the primary cause. Poole only had to complete 4 laps in the 3 man re-run but finished in style with some top notch team riding to shut out Nowacki for a scoreline flattering 7 - 2.

The teams completed a joint lap of honour and received a loud ovation from another healthy and appreciative Baiter Park crowd.

Scorers: Daniel Pudney 18+1, Chris Roberts 16, Lucasz Jozwiak 15+1, Adam Peck 12+1, Brad Hoppo 11+2, Mark Everingham 8+1, Richard Clanfield 6, Dave Murphy 5.

Leicester had just too many top end riders in the Division 2 encounter but Poole remained in touch throughout with the final scoreline 61-68.

Scorers: Karol Wlodarczyk 14, Kev Lowman 11, Luke Armes 9, Jake Williams 9, Kev Lowey 7+1, Jess Lamb 4+2, Phil Norwood 4, Matt Mildon3.

April 29th: Horspath 96 Poole 81

The hosts packed a few more big guns into their line-up and capitalised on their home track advantage. Brad Hoppo was in fine form and Karol Wlodarczyk was unlucky not to score more but for a dubious exclusion.

The rest of the side battled gamely for their points.

Scorers:- Brad Hoppo 17+2, Karol Wlodarczyk 13, Kev Lowman 13, Kev Lowey 12+1, Luke Armes 10, Alex McLeod 7, Jessie Lamb 5+1, Phil Norwood 4.

April 22nd: Poole 94 Astley & Tyldesley 78

Another excellent crowd turned out for what proved to be a lively and entertaining encounter for which both sides can take full credit. Only 7 points separated the teams at the interval stage as the visitors top three Polish stars supplied the majority of race winners including skipper Thomas Wlodarcyzk who inflicted the only defeat of the day on World Champ Dan Pudney in heat 7.

Poole emerged from the interval fired up and put in some distance with a run of heat wins to lead 78 - 57 after 14 races. Then A&T took two 7 - 2's as first Adam Peck (tapes) and then Ben Donohue (legging) received their marching orders from referee Terry Ashford.

With several squad members missing, Karol Wlodarcyzk and Kev Lowman were called up for their first Premier League outings and neither let the side down. On this showing A & T proved worthy Premier League opponants and with further signings mooted, they will be a force to reckon with. Poole will need to be at full strength if they want to take the league points in a fortnight when Leicester are the visitors.

Poole Scorers: Daniel Pudney 17+2, Adam Peck 13+1, Mark Everingham 13, Ben Donohue 12+1, Chris Roberts 11+2, Dave Murphy 10+2, Karol Wlodarczyk 10, Kev Lowman 8.

Premier League Combination match - Poole 102 A&T 69.

Scorers - Luke Burns 15+1, Luke Armes 10, Rich Chappell 9+1, Ashley Stafford 7+1, Jake Williams 7+1, Jessie Lamb 6+3, Phil Norwood 5. 45 penalty points added.

April 15th: Poole 81 Southampton 95

They may have withdrawn from the Premier League in the close season, but the Saints turned up for this SWL match with virtually a Premier strength team thanks to some generous rider gradings along the way. To add to the home side's problems, three race wins were gifted to the visitors thanks to unecessary tapes exclusions which accounted for the interval margin of 11.

Heat 7 was a classic battle between Daniel Pudney and Shaun Woodhouse which proved to be the only defeat of the day for the Saint. There was an equally good race after the break featuring Woodhouse, Gav Wheeler and Karol Wlodarczyk who was leading under intense pressure for 3 laps but as Woodhouse burst through, Wheeler lost out and Poole were able to share the spoils.

Poole Scorers; Dan Pudney 16, Ben Donohue 12+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 11+2,

Kev Lowman 11+1, Rich Clanfield 9, Kev Lowey 8+2, Luke Armes 8+1, Jake Burns 6.

Combination match score 50 - 50: Poole scorers Luke Armes 15, Jake Burns 12, Rich Chappell 9+1, Phil Norwood 4, Shane Stafford 2, James Clanfield 1.

April 14th: Wednesfield 102 Poole 75

With several first team squad members unavailable, the odds were already stacked against Poole in this one, but an off day for some of the top end names meant that the eventual margin was much greater than expected. The potency of Aces top two of Szymanski and Aris was expected but the two reserves did the real damage with 6 wins in 8 outings. Adam Peck and Dan Pudney managed only one win apiece and Chris Roberts who is still not 100% also finished with a win after another nightmare opening race tapes exclusion off grid 1.

Hats off to Wednesfield who should have little trouble with anyone on their own circuit but whether they can remain at the top of the table will depend on how they fare at places like Horspath and Leicester and of course here at Poole where they race on October 7th. What price that for a title decider?

Certainly Poole have the potential but will need to step up the pace in the meantime.

Poole scorers - Dan Pudney 14+1, Adam Peck 13, Mark Everingham 12+1, Brad Hoppo 10+1, Chris Roberts 9, Pavel Cegielski 7, Rich Clanfield 6+1.

(For photo action from this match, see the cycle speedway results page on the British Cycling website and click on Gallery 1).

The Aces won the Div 2 encounter to maintain their place at the top of the table but the Poole top four gave the home side a run for their money.

Scorers - Karol Wlodarcyzk 13, Luke Armes 12, Kev Lowman 10+1, Jake Burns 8, James Clanfield 4, Phil Norwood 4.

April 8th: Poole 95 Norwich 78

Following their surpise victory at Coventry, Poole were made to fight every inch of the way against the Stars in the curtain raiser at Harbourside Park.

The new circuit passed with flying colours and drew widespread approval from riders and spectators alike.

A crowd of around 300 saw 18 fast and furious heats with Dan Pudney and Mark Everingham drop just one point each to the opposition but this was essentially a team performance with a hatful of bonus points shared around with skipper Brad Hoppo once again leading by example. Chris Roberts showed no ill effects of his recent operation while Adam Peck was unfortunate to pick up two race exclusions while in the thick of the action.

Take your hats off to the rapid improving Norwich outfit who are certainly on the up and a fine piece of refereeing from Rob Absolum. All in all, a great advert for the sport and a satisfying day for all the hard working club members after all their efforts during the winter months.

Poole scorers: Daniel Pudney 17+2, Mark Everingham 17+2, Brad Hoppo 12+3, Ben Donohue 12+1, Chris Roberts 11, Adam Peck 10+1, Dave Murphy 9,Richard Clanfield 7.

Poole comfortably outscored the younger visitors in the Division 2 encounter 85 - 45. Jake Burns again showed his potential with 3 unbeaten rides and looks set for a great future.

Scorers - Alex McLeod 15+1, Luke Armes 14+2, Jake Burns 11+1, Karol Wlodarczyk 11+1, Kev Lowman 10+2, Rich Chappell 10+2, Jess Lamb 10, Phil Norwood 4.

April 1st: Newport 85 Poole 72

The opening Western League match at the South Wales circuit gave Karol Wlodarczyk the opportunity to stretch his legs for his first match in Poole colours for 7 seasons and he showed enough trackcraft in the senior races to suggest that he might be knocking on the Premier League door once fit.

Luke Armes top scored for the junio