Speedway: Monarchs set up by a double win

May 7 2009 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

THE Scotwaste Monarchs’ defence of the Premier Trophy roared out of the starting blocks at the weekend as they ended the undefeated home run of Redcar – one of their trophy rivals – and then beat them at Armadale in the return.

Now the West Lothian based speedway stars turn their attentions to the Knockout Cup which is the only trophy they did not win last season.

Their first tie is against Sheffield Tigers who are traditionally regarded as tough opposition over two legs, although the Yorkshire team have not been as dominant as usual at home this season.

They lost by 11 points on their last visit in early April, and Monarchs would ideally like a bigger advantage this time. The main opposition in April came from their very lively reserve Josh Auty, and others who will need to be watched include Ricky Ashworth and Richard Hall.

After losing narrowly at Newcastle recently Monarchs needed some good results last week to strengthen their challenge, and they certainly got one when they won 47-41 at Redcar who had previously been undefeated at home.

Star performers were Michal Rajkowski (13) and Thomas Jonasson (11). Sadly there was tragic news from Sweden after the match for Thomas who received a call from his mother telling him his dad had died that night.

Thomas was absent for the home match the following night when Monarchs beat Redcar again, this time by 57-35. Rain affected the track and there were a few fallers, but once again the home team came through with flying colours.

Rajkowski was impressive again as were Ryan Fisher and Aaron Summers.

Monarchs had been due at Sheffield on Thursday for what would have been the first leg, but this has been postponed due to stadium alterations and will now be on May 28.

Teams for Friday (riding order):

Scotwaste Monarchs: Ryan Fisher, Aaron Summers, Thomas H Jonasson if available, Andrew Tully, Matthew Wethers (captain), Michal Rajkowski, Sean Stoddart.

Sheffield Tigers: Ricky Ashworth, Paul Cooper, Ritchie Hawkins, Joel Parsons, Richard Hall, Josh Auty, Chris Mills.