Totally agree with Marcelle as the two guys had to work very hard in the team to learn new tracks and work together. THERE WAS VERY LITTLE TEAM SPIRIT. Its wrong of oilyrag to make such bold statements about how good or how bad a rider will be. Koppe worked hard and demonstrated his ability towards the end of the season as he got to know the tracks and set ups required. He also took time out to practice at other tracks to develop set ups and techniques for the English track as they are totally different than the aussie ones.
Don't forget both these guys (Koppe and Facundo) didn't have the opportunity to ride in the national leagues so entered into the prem league and found it a vertical learning curve. His (Koppe) equipment was top class and I challenge oily rag to point out when during the season his equipment let him down? That equipment would put the guy under financial pressure and with that I don't think he would ride to come in last....... Didn't Steadies machine fail first ride in league on the line?
Faco's equipment did leave a lot to be desired but again over time the motors began to demonstrate speed and his points totally reflects this.
These guys would boost the team as they now have a year in the league and ready to show what they can do.....
This lad will get back on the points, its also his first season in British speedway and he will not have seen many of the tracks. So the learning curve is steep. Sheffield is a track that you need to learn to find the correct racing line as with all the tracks but the speeds involved at Sheffield doesnt leave much margin for any error! I am sure he will be out and about very soon putting in the laps and experimenting with various set up.
We need to give Damo a chance as he was coming back from injury! He gated well all evening but found it difficult to hold on to the bike , granted he needs more match fitness, but this is one determined lad, who I can tell you was very focused last night.
I have to agree with Sidney and Hagonshocker, Koppe has had a difficult start in the Prem league by his own admission in the Star, but he has battled and practiced hard and I believe he has justified his place within the team with the past performances we have witnessed. He has scored well and may have turned the corner and is destined to be a solid performer in Sheffields colours this season.
Koppe and Haines really PUT ON A GREAT SHOW LAST NIGHT !
Heat 7 Koppe nullified the tactical ride with a win over Aspergen and that I believe sealed the fate of the meeting. From then on it was catch up and damage limitation. He looked smooth and with fast equipment under him, this was a big turning point this week and Sheffield looked a strong side.
Excellant assessment of the team. Damien did work hard last week and looked the part in both heat 2 and 14 although was robbed on the line. The you tube video shows the guy has the skills and was riding very well.
Both Tigers reserves did well this evening, Jakes wheel was taken away and he couldnt turn quick enough to prevent him being dragged in to the heavy stuff, Koppe is getting better each meeting as confidence grows,its a long slow learning curve and slowly these lads will start putting it together.
Koppe is improving every race and did well towards the end of the meeting. As said early days but these guys will always add to the points haul. No team can win without the reserves doing their bit.