Speedway: Monarchs face test against Workington Comets

Jun 18 2009 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

THE Armadale-based Scotwaste Monarchs face a very tough task this weekend as they take on powerful Workington Comets in the Knockout Cup quarter final.

The Comets have the top heat leader trio in the league with Kevin Doolan, Adrian Rymel and Andre Compton, and they also have two fast-rising young riders in their debut seasons Richard Lawson and Craig Cook.

The progress of the ex-MotoX duo has turned the Comets into a well-balanced outfit and they represent a tough hurdle for Monarchs, who will still be without Thomas H Jonasson.

It was Workington who knocked Monarchs out of the Cup last season as the Armadale side won all the other competitions at this level. The first leg is at Armadale on Friday with the return at Workington the following day.

The best thing about last Friday’s home win over Newcastle by 55-40 was the brilliant form of Ryan Fisher, who raced unbeaten in six rides. Tt was his best showing of the season and if he keeps that up, he will match anyone.

Newcastle gave a much better showing than they have in recent visits and made a good match. Much of the excitement came from Andrew Tully who pulled off some stunning passes.

Aaron Summers returned to form at reserve and if he can keep that up he will be important in this weekend’s matches.

The search for a rider to fill the gap left by Thomas Jonasson’s departure (which could still be temporary) is continuing but there won’t be a new man in place for this weekend’s matches.

Teams for Friday (riding order): Scotwaste Monarchs: Ryan Fisher, rider replacement for Thomas H Jonasson, Michal Rajkowski, Andrew Tully, Matthew Wethers (captain), Aaron Summers, Sean Stoddart.

Workington Comets: Kevin Doolan, John Branney, Adrian Rymel, Richard Lawson, Andre Compton, Craig Cook, Charles Wright.