Hammers win last heat decider
Lakeside pulled off an impressive 46-42 away win against Stoke at Loomer Road on Saturday night.
The Vortex Hammers prevailed in a tight meeting thanks to a determined display from their new-look septet.
Their top three led them to victory, as Zach Wajtknecht, Ben Morley and new signing Paul Hurry all bagged double figures.
It was an excellent debut for Hurry as he notched 10+1 – and he was delighted with their success in his first competitive appearance.
Said Hurry: “We got off to a bit of a slow start, because the track was a bit different to what the boys are used to at Lakeside. But once everyone got dialled in we performed well, and it was a really good result.
It was a great effort from anyone, any away win is a good result and we’re pleased to come away with three points.”
Although their top order delivered vital race wins, reserve Nick Laurence also chipped in with a pivotal 8+1 point haul at reserve.
Jamie Couzins also contributed a hard-fought paid four, and although Alfie Bowtell and guest Alex Spooner struggled the visitors came out on top.
Ahead of the crunch clash with high flying Cradley Heath at The Arena Essex Raceway tomorrow (28th May – first race 3pm), Hammers Co-Promoter Jon Cook commented:
“It was a great win, and credit to the boys for taking a victory which feels particularly sweet following some of the problems we have faced over the last 48 hours.
I’m sure that the lads will get a great reception when they go out on Parade against Cradley tomorrow. We’re all looking forward to getting back to action at The Raceway, and will looking to deliver another good performance, in front of we hope, a large Bank Holiday crowd.
The action at The Raceway starts tomorrow at 3pm, with gates open from 1pm.
Scores:
Stoke Potters = 42
Mitchell Davey 9, Shaun Tedham 7, Ryan Terry-Daley 7+1, Tony Atkin 4+2, Luke Priest 9+1, David Speight 0, Ben Woodhull (Guest) 6+1
Lakeside Hammers = 46
Zach Wajtknecht 13, Alex Spooner (Guest) 0, Paul Hurry 10, Alfie Bowtell = 1+1, Ben Morley 11+1, Jamie Couzins 3+1, Nick Laurence 8+1