lucifer sam

No-one was misled. Scunny were accepted into the league, with the NL fully aware of Scunny's plan to track largely a team of novices. There's actually been very little criticism from the other teams; one other promoter has complained, I think that's about it. Scunny's current side is within the 2014 NL rules. Cradley's current side is within the 2014 NL rules. It's debatable whether those rules need amending for 2015 and beyond, but in the meantime let's get on with what is bound to be an intriguing 2014 season. It looks like no-one can stop the Cradley juggernaunt, but I thought the same in 2012, and instead it was Mildenhall who swept the board that season. All the best Rob

My brain doesn't always work properly at 11.30pm at night - now corrected All the best Rob

BUMPER GOOD FRIDAY FEAST OF ACTION AT EDDIE WRIGHT RACEWAY FLUIDAIR POWER Scunthorpe Scorpions are looking to extend their winning sequence, as they host the Newcastle Diamonds in League Cup action at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Good Friday (3pm). The Scunthorpe Stags are also in National League action, against the Mildenhall Fen Tigers, making a total of 30 races in total. The Scorpions have enjoyed a fabulous last few days, winning 53-41 at local rivals Sheffield last Thursday and then defeating reigning league champions Somerset Rebels by 46-44 at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday, in a classic encounter that went to the final bend. “Now we’ve started winning, we want to keep it going”, said Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey. “Our lads have now got going. Ryan Douglas is doing everything we hoped he would from reserve, his paid 17 against Somerset was terrific. Ashley Birks came out with huge rides in Heats 14 & 15; a true captain’s performance. “Josh Auty was absolutely flying at Sheffield last week. We signed Josh as a full asset from Coventry during the weekend; I’m delighted by that. “And David Howe is looking more-and-more like his old self every single week; he’s finally getting over the injuries that wrecked his last two seasons. David also had a fine meeting against Somerset. “We haven’t given up on the League Cup yet. If we beat Newcastle on Friday and then go to their place on Sunday and also win that one, we could still qualify for the semi-finals. Normally Newcastle are impregnable on their own patch, but they’ve lost at home already in 2014. “We won’t give up on the League Cup, until it’s mathematically impossible for us to get through.” With so many teams in action on Good Friday, the Scorpions will use rider replacement for the injured Anders Mellgren, as no suitable guest is available. On the subject of Mellgren, who suffered a suffered a fracture in his spine after a fall at Redcar, the rider has received a tremendous boost. Initially it was thought he would be out for the whole season, but it’s now possible he could be fit in around six weeks’ time. “I thought Anders was out for the season”, admitted Godfrey. “But his spine is screwed and plated, with rods inserted, and it’s going well. He’s already doing push-ups. “It’s different to the injury that Ashley Birks suffered last year, because Ash had a lot of additional injuries as well. Anders escaped that, and it means that his recovery period is much shorter. “But I don’t think it’s going to stop us making changes, once we get our new averages. “Six weeks is a long time to use guests and rider replacement; guest riders are always something of a lottery. “And that six-week time period may still be slightly optimistic; we don’t know. But it is tremendous news that Anders will be back. There will be a team place for him, once he’s fully fit and ready.” The Scunthorpe promotion would like to thank Mildenhall for agreeing to ride against the Stags in Friday’s second meeting, the National League clash, despite being without heat-leaders Joe Jacobs, Josh Bates and Danny Halsey, with Darren Mallett and Liam Carr coming in as guests for the Fen Tigers. Stags’ chairman Richard Hollingsworth explained: “The Scunthorpe vs Cradley Heath National League fixture was scheduled for Good Friday, but then allowed to be changed because Cradley had four riders who were unavailable. “It looked like we were going to be left without a Stags’ home fixture on a key date, which would have been somewhat disastrous. “After asking every club in the league to help us out, it was Mildenhall who came forward, despite it being a date when all their heat-leaders were unavailable. “It is really very much appreciated. Our sincere thanks go out to Mildenhall promoters Chris Louis and Kevin Jolly.” On the subject of Mildenhall, all speedway fans are being urged to sign the following petition to help save Mildenhall stadium: epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/62894 Friday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Admission prices for Friday: Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-17) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Friday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Rider replacement for Anders Mellgren (Sweden), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Newcastle Diamonds: 1. Ludvig Lindgren (Sweden), 2. Christian Henry (Australia), 3. Stuart Robson, 4. R/R for Lewis Kerr, 5. Anton Rosen (Sweden), 6. Chris Schramm, 7. Guest for Lewis Rose. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Steve Jones, 2. Sam Chapman, 3. Danno Verge, 4. R/R for Arron Mogridge, 5. Adam Extance, 6. Liam Sanderson, 7. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland), 8. Michael Neale. Mildenhall Fen Tigers: 1. Darren Mallett, 2. R/R for Josh Bates, 3. Jack Kingston, 4. Brendan Johnson, 5. Liam Carr, 6. Connor Mountain, 7. Connor Coles. Newcastle Diamonds at EWR Ave Ave Best Name Lge M R Pts BP (no BP) (w BP) Performance Christian Henry PL 7 33 36 6 4.36 5.09 9 + 2 from 6 rides (2013) Ludvig Lindgren PL 5 24 44 2 7.33 7.67 14 from 5 rides (inc 4 pts T/R (2009)) Stuart Robson PL 6 30 57 4 7.60 8.13 14 + 1 from 6 rides (inc 6 pts T/R (2013)) Anton Rosen DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Chris Schramm PL 11 43 43 4 4.00 4.37 14 from 5 rides (2009) Other Notes Christian Henry Member of Glasgow's Premier League Championship Winners in 2011. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Newcastle's Premier Shield Winning Team in 2013. Ludvig Lindgren Member of Wolverhampton's Elite Shield Winning Teams in 2010 and 2011. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Newcastle's League Cup and Premier Shield Winning Teams in 2013. Stuart Robson Member of Coventry's Craven Shield Winning Team in 2000. Member of Rye House's Premier League and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2005. Member of Lakeside's Elite League KO Cup Winning Team in 2009. Member of Newcastle's Premier Shield Winning Team in 2011 and 2013. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Anton Rosen Swedish rider who made his British League debut with Newcastle in 2013. Member of Newcastle's League Cup Winning Team in 2013. Chris Schramm Member of Peterborough's Conference League Championship Winning Team in 2002. Member of King's Lynn's Premier League Championship, KO Cup and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2009. Member of Workington's Young Shield Winning Team in 2010. Member of Newcastle's League Cup Winning Team in 2013. Newcastle's Results at EWR: 04 April 2008 PT L Scunthorpe 55 Newcastle 38 16 May 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 56 Newcastle 36 08 May 2009 KOC (1) L Scunthorpe 65 Newcastle 25 07 August 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 51 Newcastle 45 14 May 2010 KOC (1) L Scunthorpe 49 Newcastle 41 23 July 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Newcastle 39 01 April 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 47 Newcastle 42 30 March 2012 LC L Scunthorpe 46 Newcastle 44 13 July 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 48 Newcastle 42 12 April 2013 PS (1) L Scunthorpe 50 Newcastle 43 05 July 2013 PL L Scunthorpe 46 Newcastle 44 (stats by John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: www.fluidair-power.co.uk

BUMPER GOOD FRIDAY FEAST OF ACTION AT EDDIE WRIGHT RACEWAY FLUIDAIR POWER Scunthorpe Scorpions are looking to extend their winning sequence, as they host the Newcastle Diamonds in League Cup action at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Good Friday (3pm). The Scunthorpe Stags are also in National League action, against the Mildenhall Fen Tigers, making a total of 30 races in total. The Scorpions have enjoyed a fabulous last few days, winning 53-41 at local rivals Sheffield last Thursday and then defeating reigning league champions Somerset Rebels by 46-44 at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday, in a classic encounter that went to the final bend. “Now we’ve started winning, we want to keep it going”, said Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey. “Our lads have now got going. Ryan Douglas is doing everything we hoped he would from reserve, his paid 17 against Somerset was terrific. Ashley Birks came out with huge rides in Heats 14 & 15; a true captain’s performance. “Josh Auty was absolutely flying at Sheffield last week. We signed Josh as a full asset from Coventry during the weekend; I’m delighted by that. “And David Howe is looking more-and-more like his old self every single week; he’s finally getting over the injuries that wrecked his last two seasons. David also had a fine meeting against Somerset. “We haven’t given up on the League Cup yet. If we beat Newcastle on Friday and then go to their place on Sunday and also win that one, we could still qualify for the semi-finals. Normally Newcastle are impregnable on their own patch, but they’ve lost at home already in 2014. “We won’t give up on the League Cup, until it’s mathematically impossible for us to get through.” With so many teams in action on Good Friday, the Scorpions will use rider replacement for the injured Anders Mellgren, as no suitable guest is available. On the subject of Mellgren, who suffered a suffered a fracture in his spine after a fall at Redcar, the rider has received a tremendous boost. Initially it was thought he would be out for the whole season, but it’s now possible he could be fit in around six weeks’ time. “I thought Anders was out for the season”, admitted Godfrey. “But his spine is screwed and plated, with rods inserted, and it’s going well. He’s already doing push-ups. “It’s different to the injury that Ashley Birks suffered last year, because Ash had a lot of additional injuries as well. Anders escaped that, and it means that his recovery period is much shorter. “But I don’t think it’s going to stop us making changes, once we get our new averages. “Six weeks is a long time to use guests and rider replacement; guest riders are always something of a lottery. “And that six-week time period may still be slightly optimistic; we don’t know. But it is tremendous news that Anders will be back. There will be a team place for him, once he’s fully fit and ready.” The Scunthorpe promotion would like to thank Mildenhall for agreeing to ride against the Stags in Friday’s second meeting, the National League clash, despite being without heat-leaders Joe Jacobs, Josh Bates and Danny Halsey, with Darren Mallett and Liam Carr coming in as guests for the Fen Tigers. Stags’ chairman Richard Hollingsworth explained: “The Scunthorpe vs Cradley Heath National League fixture was scheduled for Good Friday, but then allowed to be changed because Cradley had four riders who were unavailable. “It looked like we were going to be left without a Stags’ home fixture on a key date, which would have been somewhat disastrous. “After asking every club in the league to help us out, it was Mildenhall who came forward, despite it being a date when all their heat-leaders were unavailable. “It is really very much appreciated. Our sincere thanks go out to Mildenhall promoters Chris Louis and Kevin Jolly.” On the subject of Mildenhall, all speedway fans are being urged to sign the following petition to help save Mildenhall stadium: epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/62894 Friday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Admission prices for Friday: Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-17) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Friday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Rider replacement for Anders Mellgren (Sweden), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Newcastle Diamonds: 1. Ludvig Lindgren (Sweden), 2. Christian Henry (Australia), 3. Stuart Robson, 4. R/R for Lewis Kerr, 5. Anton Rosen (Sweden), 6. Chris Schramm, 7. Guest for Lewis Rose. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Steve Jones, 2. Sam Chapman, 3. Danno Verge, 4. R/R for Arron Mogridge, 5. Adam Extance, 6. Liam Sanderson, 7. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland), 8. Michael Neale. Mildenhall Fen Tigers: 1. Darren Mallett, 2. R/R for Josh Bates, 3. Jack Kingston, 4. Brendan Johnson, 5. Liam Carr, 6. Connor Mountain, 7. Connor Coles. Newcastle Diamonds at EWR Ave Ave Best Name Lge M R Pts BP (no BP) (w BP) Performance Christian Henry PL 7 33 36 6 4.36 5.09 9 + 2 from 6 rides (2013) Ludvig Lindgren PL 5 24 44 2 7.33 7.67 14 from 5 rides (inc 4 pts T/R (2009)) Stuart Robson PL 6 30 57 4 7.60 8.13 14 + 1 from 6 rides (inc 6 pts T/R (2013)) Anton Rosen DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Chris Schramm PL 11 43 43 4 4.00 4.37 14 from 5 rides (2009) Other Notes Christian Henry Member of Glasgow's Premier League Championship Winners in 2011. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Newcastle's Premier Shield Winning Team in 2013. Ludvig Lindgren Member of Wolverhampton's Elite Shield Winning Teams in 2010 and 2011. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Newcastle's League Cup and Premier Shield Winning Teams in 2013. Stuart Robson Member of Coventry's Craven Shield Winning Team in 2000. Member of Rye House's Premier League and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2005. Member of Lakeside's Elite League KO Cup Winning Team in 2009. Member of Newcastle's Premier Shield Winning Team in 2011 and 2013. Member of Newcastle's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Anton Rosen Swedish rider who made his British League debut with Newcastle in 2013. Member of Newcastle's League Cup Winning Team in 2013. Chris Schramm Member of Peterborough's Conference League Championship Winning Team in 2002. Member of King's Lynn's Premier League Championship, KO Cup and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2009. Member of Workington's Young Shield Winning Team in 2010. Member of Newcastle's League Cup Winning Team in 2013. Newcastle's Results at EWR: 04 April 2008 PT L Scunthorpe 55 Newcastle 38 16 May 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 56 Newcastle 36 08 May 2009 KOC (1) L Scunthorpe 65 Newcastle 25 07 August 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 51 Newcastle 45 14 May 2010 KOC (1) L Scunthorpe 49 Newcastle 41 23 July 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Newcastle 39 01 April 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 47 Newcastle 42 30 March 2012 LC L Scunthorpe 46 Newcastle 44 13 July 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 48 Newcastle 42 12 April 2013 PS (1) L Scunthorpe 50 Newcastle 43 05 July 2013 PL L Scunthorpe 46 Newcastle 44 (stats by John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: www.fluidair-power.co.uk

HT, read the press release in Post 7, and you'll see the Scunny promotion are not trying to claim anything other than that. As you say, if the by-product is that British Speedway benefits, then that's absoutely great, but the principle motivation is to provide riders for the Scorpions and Pirates in the future. Scunny have been running double-headers since 2008, it's the best way to run two teams at the EWR. Personally, it's what got me up there on a regular basis. It works - why change it? As for affecting others attendances, it depends what most fans are after. I think most are happy as long as their (main) team wins. You, I and other who take the time out to post on here are the exception, rather than the rule. All the best Rob There's been a lot of interesting stuff on this thread, sadly your posts are the exception. As soon as you starting throwing pointless insults, you lose the argument by default. All the best Rob

Did turn into a monster post! It was supposed to be two, but the forum joined them together. All the best Rob

THE CHAMPIONS ARE COMING! THERE’S a mouth-watering double-header at Scunthorpe’s Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday (3pm), with both the respective Premier League and National League champions in town. The FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions are involved in their first league match of the season, entertaining the Somerset Rebels; the team who succeeded the Scorpions as Premier League Champions. Meanwhile, the rookie riders of the Scunthorpe Stags face a very hard task – facing powerhouse Cradley Heath in a National League match. The Scorpions had suffered a torrid start to the season, losing their opening three League Cup matches and seeing No 1 Anders Mellgren suffer a fracture of the spine that is likely to him out of the rest of the 2014 campaign. But on Thursday night, the Scorpions took a terrific 53-41 away win at Sheffield, and the team will be hoping to continue that momentum against Somerset. “We’ve got to beat Somerset”, said Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey. “Up until the brilliant win at Sheffield, we’d had a horrible start to this season. We showed what we are capable at Sheffield, and we need to do that again at home to Somerset. “It’s vital for us to get our Premier League campaign with a home win – we don’t want to be playing catch up. I’m confident that we can start pick up away league points; but at the same time, we don’t want to losing points from home meetings. “It is a big meeting for us on Sunday. We’re bringing in Redcar’s Aaron Summers as the guest for Anders – the very best guest we could find.” Somerset have a very different looking line-up in 2014, but home and away wins against Newcastle to land the first silverware of the season in the Premier Shield, had demonstrated the Rebels again have a very effective team. The key to their team is Brady Kurtz, a highly-rated Australian who is brand new to British Speedway. Godfrey insists that the Scorpions will wait until the right time to bring in a replacement for the injured Mellgren. “It would be foolish to rush in”, he said. “We’ll wait until the right time, maybe it will be in a couple of weeks time, when the new averages kick in. “Whatever we decide, it will have a major bearing on the rest of our season. We need to make the right move, and make it at the right time.” Meanwhile, Godfrey was delighted with the progress shown by the Scunthorpe Stags last Sunday. Although the Stags lost 37-56 at home to King’s Lynn, it was a much improved performance on the Stags’ opening three matches, all of which resulted in heavy defeats. “I was very pleased by the performance of the Stags’ lads last week. Unfortunately we have a few of the boys out injured, but those left put in great performances, which were much improved from the previous week. “Both Ryan MacDonald and Danno Verge were paid for double figures, while Liam Sanderson’s ride to win Heat 14 from behind was just sensational. “We are on a hiding to nothing for this Sunday’s meeting against Cradley, but beyond that, we will see the riders continue to progress. “Last Sunday’s meeting convinced me we are doing the right thing with the Stags.” Danno Verge is away on Sunday – attending a training school held by former World Champion Jan O Pedersen in Denmark. Sunday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Admission prices for Sunday: Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-16) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Sunday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Aaron Summers (Australia), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Somerset Rebels: 1. Nick Morris (Australia), 2. Todd Kurtz (Australia), 3. Brady Kurtz (Australia), 4. Pontus Aspgren (Sweden), 5. Oliver Allen, 6. Charles Wright, 7. Paul Starke. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Steve Jones, 2. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland). 3. Sam Woods, 4. Adam Kirby, 5. R/R for Arron Mogridge, 6. Sam Chapman, 7. Liam Sanderson. Cradley Heathens: 1. Paul Starke, 2. Nathan Greaves, 3. Tom Perry, 4. Max Clegg, 5. Steve Worrall, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Danny Phillips. Somerset Rebels at EWR Oliver Allen DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Pontus Aspgren PL 1 4 5 0 5.00 5.00 5 from 4 rides (2013) Brady Kurtz DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Todd Kurtz PL 6 26 24 6 3.69 4.62 12 from 7 rides (2013) Nick Morris PL 18 89 176 13 7.91 8.49 15 from 6 rides (2012) Paul Starke PL 1 3 0 0 0.00 0.00 Charles Wright PL 5 20 15 3 3.00 3.60 4 + 1 from 5 rides (2012) Other Notes Somerset are the current Premier League Champions and won the 2014 Premier Shield. Oliver Allen 2013 Premier League Riders Champion. Has represented GB in Speedway World Cup Tournaments. Has won League Championship titles at National, Premier and Elite League levels. Member of Swindon's PL KO Cup and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2000. Member of King's Lynn's PL KO Cup and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2005. Member of Coventry's EL KO Cup and Elite Shield Winning Teams in 2006. Pontus Aspgren Made his British League debut with Wolverhampton in the 2012 Elite League. Rode at Premier League level with Rye House in 2013. Has represented Sweden at Under-19 and Under-21 level. Brady Kurtz Riding in his debut British League season. Twice Australian Under-16 Champion (125cc) in 2009/10 and 2011/12. New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2011/12. New South Wales State Champion in 2013/14. Todd Kurtz Member of Newport's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2011. Australian and New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2007/08. Nick Morris Former Scunthorpe Scorpion and a member of the 2012 Premier League Championship Winning Team. Twice Queensland Under-16 Champion in 2008/09 and 2009/10. New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2009/10. Member of Buxton's National League Championship Winning Team in 2010. Member of Glasgow's Premier League Championship Winning Team in 2011. Member of Swindon's Elite League Championship Winning Team in 2012. Member of Somerset's Premier League Championship and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2013. Named as a 'doubling-up' rider with Swindon for the 2014 Elite League season. Paul Starke Member of Plymouth's Conference Trophy and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Plymouth's National Trophy Winning Team in 2009. Member of Newcastle's PL KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Dudley's NL Championship, KO Cup and Fours Winning Teams in 2013. Will captain Cradley in the 2014 National League season. Charles Wright Member of Workington's PL Fours and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Somerset's Premier League Championship and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2013. Somerset Rebels' Results at EWR 05 May 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 51 Somerset 39 13 April 2009 PT L Scunthorpe 53 Somerset 40 05 June 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 47 Somerset 43 03 May 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 56 Somerset 40 02 October 2010 YS L Scunthorpe 70 Somerset 20 25 April 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 49 Somerset 41 04 September 2011 PL Ph 2 L Scunthorpe 49 Somerset 41 27 August 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 50 Somerset 40 29 October 2012 PL POF L Scunthorpe 48 Somerset 42 27 May 2013 PL W Scunthorpe 37 Somerset 56 (stats courtesy of John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: http://www.fluidair-power.co.uk GODFREY DELIGHTED WITH PROGRESS OF STAGS SCUNTHORPE promoter Rob Godfrey is delighted with the progress of the club’s second team, the Scunthorpe Stags, in the National League so far this season. The Stags are being run as a joint venture between Scunthorpe and Elite League Champions Poole to find possible stars of the future for both clubs; although in terms of the day-to-day running of the side, this is being handled at Scunthorpe. As chairman of the Stags, it is Richard Hollingsworth who has assembled the side, picking up the best talent on offer from club’s regular Amateur Meetings. It’s fair to say that the approach of using one experienced rider (Steve Jones) and six rookies has drawn criticism from some quarters. Three heavy defeats were followed by a much improved 37-56 reverse at home to King’s Lynn last Sunday. But Godfrey insists the club’s approach to the National League is the one that is in the best interests of both the clubs who are financing the venture. “The Stags are all about rider progression and finding the next Tai Woffinden or Richie Worrall or Ashley Birks or Josh Auty”, says Godfrey. “And so far, rider progression is exactly what I’ve seen. One week I saw our performance at the Eddie Wright Raceway against Kent, the next week another home meeting against King’s Lynn. In between, the lads had been to King’s Lynn and Coventry. “They’d learnt so much in just a week. Ryan MacDonald was starting to get out the starts last Sunday and actually set the fastest time of the meeting in Heat 2, while Danno Verge is just looking so steady – and again he is improving all-the-time. “Young Liam Sanderson is a battler. He’s already got the speed, his dash past Scott Campos in Heat 14 was the highlight of the day on Sunday. Once Liam, who actually comes from Scunthorpe, has got just a little bit more control of the bike, he’s really going to go places. “It’s a shame we suffered some injuries in our first meeting, because Arron Mogridge was already showing potential, while Reece Downes - who seems to have been at Scunthorpe forever first as a mascot and now as a rider - is another young man going places.” Godfrey is well aware of the disparity of team strengths in the National League this season. On Sunday, Cradley come to the Eddie Wright Raceway with a power-packed septet of riders. “We’re on a hiding to nothing on Sunday”, he admits. “The Stags’ boys will battle, and we will celebrate every single point we pick up from the Heathens. “In some ways, we’re going to be turned over by ourselves on Sunday. The Cradley line-up contains two Scunthorpe assets (Steve Worrall and Matt Williamson), plus a further two riders who started off their careers with the-then Scunthorpe Saints in 2012 (Max Clegg and Danny Phillips). “Danny is a very good example of what we were all about in 2012 and what we’re even more about this season. “It’s fair to say he didn’t score too many points in 2012. But we stuck by him for the whole season, because we knew he had the potential. Stuart Parnaby, who was the boss of the Saints, hardly ever took Danny out of a ride – he was given four rides a meeting. We stuck by him in a way that many clubs would not. “It’s benefited Danny since, and now his career has started to take off. “It’s ironic that we will be beating ourselves on Sunday. I have no expectations as to what the scoreline may be. Cradley have seven quality riders, and every time we beat one, we will be claiming a prized scalp. “But once this fixture is out of the way, I’m sure we’ll see real progress once more from the Stags.” The difference in team strengths in the 2014 National League is one that is going to cause discussion throughout the season (although it should be pointed out that a meeting with a lopsided scoreline can still contain great racing). It’s not just the Stags involved in such meetings; on Wednesday, King’s Lynn lost 23-69 at Cradley, while Buxton are struggling to find top-end riders. Any future decisions how to level team strengths for future seasons are for the league as a whole to decide, although there will still be many fascinating twists and turns as the 2014 NL progresses. In the meantime, Godfrey says Scunthorpe Stags will continue their own programme of developing riders. “We’ve got a bunch of lads who are just starting off on their journeys”, he said. “Last team we did something similar to this, we unearthed Ashley Birks, Steve Worrall, Richie Worrall and Gary Irving. “The approach this time is even more dedicated to finding young riders, who will go on to become the Scorpions or Poole Pirates of the future. Richard Hollingsworth is passionate about bringing on riders. “We are chucking them in the deep end. I’ve seen a few people claim we might be damaging their confidence, but that’s not true at all. “Instead we’re watching the lads appreciate the opportunites given, grabbing hold of those opportunities with both hands, and starting to move forward. I know a lot of the fans really enjoy watching that happen. “It is going to be fantastic to watch their careers progress, and I very much hope that both Scunthorpe and Poole will reap the rewards in the years to come. “The current World Champion (Tai Woffinden) started his British racing career at Scunthorpe. It would be great to unearth another British World Champion”, concluded Godfrey.

THE CHAMPIONS ARE COMING! THERE’S a mouth-watering double-header at Scunthorpe’s Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday (3pm), with both the respective Premier League and National League champions in town. The FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions are involved in their first league match of the season, entertaining the Somerset Rebels; the team who succeeded the Scorpions as Premier League Champions. Meanwhile, the rookie riders of the Scunthorpe Stags face a very hard task – facing powerhouse Cradley Heath in a National League match. The Scorpions had suffered a torrid start to the season, losing their opening three League Cup matches and seeing No 1 Anders Mellgren suffer a fracture of the spine that is likely to him out of the rest of the 2014 campaign. But on Thursday night, the Scorpions took a terrific 53-41 away win at Sheffield, and the team will be hoping to continue that momentum against Somerset. “We’ve got to beat Somerset”, said Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey. “Up until the brilliant win at Sheffield, we’d had a horrible start to this season. We showed what we are capable at Sheffield, and we need to do that again at home to Somerset. “It’s vital for us to get our Premier League campaign with a home win – we don’t want to be playing catch up. I’m confident that we can start pick up away league points; but at the same time, we don’t want to losing points from home meetings. “It is a big meeting for us on Sunday. We’re bringing in Redcar’s Aaron Summers as the guest for Anders – the very best guest we could find.” Somerset have a very different looking line-up in 2014, but home and away wins against Newcastle to land the first silverware of the season in the Premier Shield, had demonstrated the Rebels again have a very effective team. The key to their team is Brady Kurtz, a highly-rated Australian who is brand new to British Speedway. Godfrey insists that the Scorpions will wait until the right time to bring in a replacement for the injured Mellgren. “It would be foolish to rush in”, he said. “We’ll wait until the right time, maybe it will be in a couple of weeks time, when the new averages kick in. “Whatever we decide, it will have a major bearing on the rest of our season. We need to make the right move, and make it at the right time.” Meanwhile, Godfrey was delighted with the progress shown by the Scunthorpe Stags last Sunday. Although the Stags lost 37-56 at home to King’s Lynn, it was a much improved performance on the Stags’ opening three matches, all of which resulted in heavy defeats. “I was very pleased by the performance of the Stags’ lads last week. Unfortunately we have a few of the boys out injured, but those left put in great performances, which were much improved from the previous week. “Both Ryan MacDonald and Danno Verge were paid for double figures, while Liam Sanderson’s ride to win Heat 14 from behind was just sensational. “We are on a hiding to nothing for this Sunday’s meeting against Cradley, but beyond that, we will see the riders continue to progress. “Last Sunday’s meeting convinced me we are doing the right thing with the Stags.” Danno Verge is away on Sunday – attending a training school held by former World Champion Jan O Pedersen in Denmark. Sunday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Admission prices for Sunday: Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-16) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Sunday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Aaron Summers (Australia), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Somerset Rebels: 1. Nick Morris (Australia), 2. Todd Kurtz (Australia), 3. Brady Kurtz (Australia), 4. Pontus Aspgren (Sweden), 5. Oliver Allen, 6. Charles Wright, 7. Paul Starke. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Steve Jones, 2. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland). 3. Sam Woods, 4. Adam Kirby, 5. R/R for Arron Mogridge, 6. Sam Chapman, 7. Liam Sanderson. Cradley Heathens: 1. Paul Starke, 2. Nathan Greaves, 3. Tom Perry, 4. Max Clegg, 5. Steve Worrall, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Danny Phillips. Somerset Rebels at EWR Oliver Allen DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Pontus Aspgren PL 1 4 5 0 5.00 5.00 5 from 4 rides (2013) Brady Kurtz DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Todd Kurtz PL 6 26 24 6 3.69 4.62 12 from 7 rides (2013) Nick Morris PL 18 89 176 13 7.91 8.49 15 from 6 rides (2012) Paul Starke PL 1 3 0 0 0.00 0.00 Charles Wright PL 5 20 15 3 3.00 3.60 4 + 1 from 5 rides (2012) Other Notes Somerset are the current Premier League Champions and won the 2014 Premier Shield. Oliver Allen 2013 Premier League Riders Champion. Has represented GB in Speedway World Cup Tournaments. Has won League Championship titles at National, Premier and Elite League levels. Member of Swindon's PL KO Cup and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2000. Member of King's Lynn's PL KO Cup and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2005. Member of Coventry's EL KO Cup and Elite Shield Winning Teams in 2006. Pontus Aspgren Made his British League debut with Wolverhampton in the 2012 Elite League. Rode at Premier League level with Rye House in 2013. Has represented Sweden at Under-19 and Under-21 level. Brady Kurtz Riding in his debut British League season. Twice Australian Under-16 Champion (125cc) in 2009/10 and 2011/12. New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2011/12. New South Wales State Champion in 2013/14. Todd Kurtz Member of Newport's Premier League KO Cup Winning Team in 2011. Australian and New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2007/08. Nick Morris Former Scunthorpe Scorpion and a member of the 2012 Premier League Championship Winning Team. Twice Queensland Under-16 Champion in 2008/09 and 2009/10. New South Wales Under-16 Champion in 2009/10. Member of Buxton's National League Championship Winning Team in 2010. Member of Glasgow's Premier League Championship Winning Team in 2011. Member of Swindon's Elite League Championship Winning Team in 2012. Member of Somerset's Premier League Championship and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2013. Named as a 'doubling-up' rider with Swindon for the 2014 Elite League season. Paul Starke Member of Plymouth's Conference Trophy and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Plymouth's National Trophy Winning Team in 2009. Member of Newcastle's PL KO Cup Winning Team in 2012. Member of Dudley's NL Championship, KO Cup and Fours Winning Teams in 2013. Will captain Cradley in the 2014 National League season. Charles Wright Member of Workington's PL Fours and Young Shield Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Somerset's Premier League Championship and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2013. Somerset Rebels' Results at EWR 05 May 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 51 Somerset 39 13 April 2009 PT L Scunthorpe 53 Somerset 40 05 June 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 47 Somerset 43 03 May 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 56 Somerset 40 02 October 2010 YS L Scunthorpe 70 Somerset 20 25 April 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 49 Somerset 41 04 September 2011 PL Ph 2 L Scunthorpe 49 Somerset 41 27 August 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 50 Somerset 40 29 October 2012 PL POF L Scunthorpe 48 Somerset 42 27 May 2013 PL W Scunthorpe 37 Somerset 56 (stats courtesy of John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: http://www.fluidair-power.co.uk

I was also at that meeting. I have a really hazy memory of what you've said. Wasn't it kicking off, right from the beginning of that meeting? Hall and Wilko had a bad tempered exchange, and then the aformentioned Hall/Bergstrom incident. I did think it just handbags at that meeting. It's all covered in some detail in one of Jeff Scott's books, I believe. I'm pretty sure that's the same double-header where Buzz Burrows and Simon Lambert were involved in an awesome Heat 15 in the second meeting, where they passed each other something like 10 or 12 times over the four laps. All the best Rob

What is it with the water up Workington way? For just about everyone else, though, this is now resolved and yesterday's news. Richard Hall has apologised, he's been given a penalty that is just about right, and now we can get back to the stuff that matters... on the speedway track. All the best Rob

Really enjoyed the Stags meeting yesterday. Heat 14 was just fantastic. The cheer from the rest of the Stags' riders in the pits shows there is great team spirit in the camp. All the best Rob

Just a few thoughts of my own on yesterday’s incident. Handbags are all part of speedway… and have brightened up many a dull meeting. I remember a huge barney at Oxford in 1984, following an incident between Hans Nielsen and Sam Ermolenko, with Ermolenko’s mechanic going wild, and being forcefully ejected from the stadium by security. That’s my memory of that meeting – not the racing. Great stuff. Yesterday was different. It wasn’t a harmless man-to-man, toe-to-toe scuffle. Instead it was one man kicking (with some force) another man in the stomach who was still down on the track, with, at that time, yet to be determined injuries. It was sickening. I’m just glad that Josh Auty had a knee injury – I dread to think what damage Richard Hall may have caused otherwise. Three days earlier Anders Mellgren suffered a fracture to his spine – had Josh Auty been lying on the track with this kind of injury yesterday, Richard Hall could have found himself in serious trouble with the police and facing criminal charges. Tempers do get frayed during the high-octane atmosphere of a speedway meeting, but certain lines cannot be crossed. Striking an injured rider is one of them. A bit of controversy has its place in speedway, but not a cowardly attack on an injured man. All the best Rob

Are you for real? Just glad that 99.9% of speedway fans are nice folk, and people like you are in the minority. All the best Rob

Mimmo, no idea, as I'm currently in sunny Oxfordshire. Just been checking out the satellite pictures for this afternoon and all looks OK. No rain predicted for Scunny between 3-6pm, but showers around by the look of it (hopefully the shower will stick to where it's placed on the satellite picture - Grimsby). I'm setting off around 11am. All the best Rob

As Lee Dicken cannot ride, Connor Dwyer was lined up as a replacement, but sadly he's now injured. Steve Jones moves to No 1, while R/R operates at No 5. All the best Rob

Steve Jones has been around for a few years. Scunny also tried to bring in Lee Dicken, but that's now been blocked. I enjoyed last night - as the Scunny boys gradually improved as the night went on. I predicted after Heat 10 that Danno would beat Martin Knuckey in Heat 12 and he did... from the back. My own personal view would be I'd like to see one more exprienced rider in there, as well as Steve Jones. I think two more experienced riders plus five rookies would be a good mix. But as the blocked attempt to sign Lee Dicken shows, it's not that easy to find a rider who fits within the NL rules. All the best Rob

They're not guests, but unattached 3.00 riders brought in to replace injured riders. Scunny could have reverted to R/R, but have put out a full seven-man line-up. All the best Rob

Dale, thanks for confirming - now amended in opening post. All the best Rob

Hi HT, I agree that the 2007 Scunthorpe Scorpions were the strongest ever team at this level. I don't agree with some of your other points. I will look back to check, but I think the 2007 Scunthorpe Scorpions came in at around 36 grading points - well below the limit for that season (yes, the grading system was barking mad, but you can't blame Scunny for that, I think it pre-dated the club!). And from what I recall, the 2007 Scorpions were more-or-less the previous season's riders, plus Joe Haines, not a cherry-picked selection of the best riders. They hardly enticed the riders through big wages - they were already at the club! I think the strength of the side was more to do with Kenny Smith's experience at this level and having a very good eye for talent. An example was Andrew Tully - when I saw him in the Armadale vs Oxford match in 2005, he scored a big fat blob. However, Kenny Smith saw the potential in him, and at Scunny he became a big scorer. Scunny certainly were not the biggest payers in '07. I know which club were by a long chalk... the club who poached a rider from Oxford while we were closed down by offering him double the money (I did object to the club concerned doing that; I never had a problem with the rider concerned or his father). The same club tried to poach a second Oxford rider, again by offering him double the money. Scunny didn't steal or try to steal any of Oxford's riders. Onto 2014, and Scunny are just getting on doing their own thing this year. The third-tier has always been a compromise between clubs with different agendas. Scunny are just getting on with carrying out their own agenda, which is to develop riders for Scunthorpe and Poole. And yes, of course, that agenda is different than it was in 2007. I don't think anyone has tried to claim any different. And where has the club issued a statement to say it "grossly objects" about the other clubs. The club simply has its own vision about the NL and the sort of team it wants to track. All the best Rob

DOUGLAS BOOST FOR SCORPIONS THE FLUID-AIR POWER Scunthorpe Scorpions are involved in a double-dose of League Cup action against the Redcar Bears this week. The Scorpions travel to Redcar tonight (Thursday), before entertaining the Bears at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday afternoon (3pm) in a double-header also featuring the Scunthorpe Stags in National League Knockout Cup action against the King’s Lynn Young Stars. A big boost for the Scorpions is that Australian Ryan Douglas received his visa through the post on Monday, and is hot-footing it to the UK. His flight is due to arrive this morning. Barring any hiccups, Douglas is expected to line-up at Redcar tonight, and will definitely be back for Sunday’s home meeting. Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “It will be great to have Ryan back. “As I said to the supporters over the Public Address on Sunday, one rider does not make a team, but he can make a big difference, especially when he’s a high-scoring reserve. “Of course, it was a disappointment to lose at home to Sheffield last week, and no-one likes us losing at home less than me, but there were plenty of positives in there. “Our skipper Ashley Birks was just fantastic. Six months ago, his whole career hung in the balance after he sustained a back injury – and the chances of him being ready for the start of this season seemed remote. “But he’s worked hard to get himself back in physical and mental shape, and he was rewarded with a paid 11 score last Sunday, and then also finished up on the rostrum in the individual at Sheffield on Monday. It’s just like Ash has never been away.” Godfrey is looking forward to a cracking meeting against the Bears on Sunday. He said: “I think it’s going to be a belter. Redcar have three ex-Scorpions in their side in Carl Wilkinson, Richard Hall and Jan Graversen. It promises to be a terrific meeting, with great racing – and I also want a Scorpions win!” Sunday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-16) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Sunday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Anders Mellgren (Sweden), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Redcar Bears: 1. Richard Lawson, 2. Carl Wilkinson, 3. Hugh Skidmore (Australia), 3. Richard Hall, 5. Aaron Summers (Australia), 6. Jan Graversen (Denmark), 7. Luke Crang. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Lee Dicken, 2. Sam Woods, 3. Danno Verge, 4. Adam Kirby, 5. Steve Jones, 6. Liam Sanderson, 7. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland). King’s Lynn Young Stars: 1. Rider replacement for Lewis Rose, 2. Darren Mallett, 3. James Cockle, 4. Darryl Ritchings, 5. Kyle Hughes, 6. Josh Bailey, 7. Scott Campos. Redcar Bears at EWR Luke Crang DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Jan Graversen PL 20 89 99 24 4.45 5,53 9 + 4 from 7 rides (2012) Richard Hall PL 44 203 376 23 7.41 7.86 17 from 6 rides (2008) Richard Lawson PL 9 37 52 5 5.62 6.16 12 + 1 from 5 rides (2012) Hugh Skidmore PL 16 76 120 10 6.32 6.84 11 + 1 from 5 rides (inc 6 pts T/R (2012)) Aaron Summers PL 12 55 74 4 5.38 5.67 10 + 1 from 6 rides (inc 4 pts T/R 2010)) Carl Wilkinson PL 85 381 694 66 7.29 7.98 16 + 1 from 6 rides (2010) Other Notes Luke Crang Rode for the Redcar Cubs in the NJL before riding for Coventry in the National League last season. Riding in his debut Premier League season with the Bears. Jan Graversen Former Scunthorpe Scorpion who won the 2010 Kenny Smith Memorial Trophy Meeting. Member of King's Lynn's Premier League Championship, Premier Trophy and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2009. Richard Hall Former Scunthorpe rider who has scored over 450 points for the club. Member of Peterborough's Elite League Championship Winning Team in 2006. Member of Peterborough's Elite League Shield Winning Team in 2007. Richard Lawson Member of Workington's Premier League Fours Winning Team in 2009. Member of Workington's Young Shield Winning Team in 2010. Named as a 'doubling-up' rider with Lakeside for the 2014 Elite League Season. Hugh Skidmore 2009 New South Wales State Champion. Made his Premier League debut in 2009 for Sheffield and now in his second season with Redcar. A rider who has rode for the Scorpions as a Guest on several occasions. Aaron Summers Member of Edinburgh's Premier League Championship and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Edinburgh's Premier League Play-Off Winning Teams in 2008 and 2009. Member of Coventry's Elite League Winning Team in 2010. Member of Birmingham's Premier League Four-Team Championship Winning Team in 2010. Carl Wilkinson Former Scunthorpe rider who is the 6th highest points scorer of all-time for the club (1207 points scored). Member of Boston's Conference League KO Cup Winning Team in 2000. Member of Peterborough's Conference League Winning Team in 1997. Redcar Bears' Results at EWR 30 March 2008 PT D Scunthorpe 45 Redcar 45 06 June 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Redcar 41 19 June 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 49 Redcar 44 31 July 2009 KOC L Scunthorpe 50 Redcar 39 02 October 2009 YS L Scunthorpe 56 Redcar 34 05 April 2010 PT L Scunthorpe 50 Redcar 42 02 May 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 57 Redcar 34 09 September 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Redcar 41 07 October 2011 PL Ph 2 L Scunthorpe 65 Redcar 25 27 April 2012 LC L Scunthorpe 54 Redcar 36 14 September 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 55 Redcar 38 14 June 2013 KOC W Scunthorpe 41 Redcar 49 12 July 2013 PL L Scunthorpe 45 Redcar 44 (stats courtesy of John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: http://www.fluidair-power.co.uk

DOUGLAS BOOST FOR SCORPIONS THE FLUID-AIR POWER Scunthorpe Scorpions are involved in a double-dose of League Cup action against the Redcar Bears this week. The Scorpions travel to Redcar tonight (Thursday), before entertaining the Bears at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday afternoon (3pm) in a double-header also featuring the Scunthorpe Stags in National League Knockout Cup action against the King’s Lynn Young Stars. A big boost for the Scorpions is that Australian Ryan Douglas received his visa through the post on Monday, and is hot-footing it to the UK. His flight is due to arrive this morning. Barring any hiccups, Douglas is expected to line-up at Redcar tonight, and will definitely be back for Sunday’s home meeting. Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “It will be great to have Ryan back. “As I said to the supporters over the Public Address on Sunday, one rider does not make a team, but he can make a big difference, especially when he’s a high-scoring reserve. “Of course, it was a disappointment to lose at home to Sheffield last week, and no-one likes us losing at home less than me, but there were plenty of positives in there. “Our skipper Ashley Birks was just fantastic. Six months ago, his whole career hung in the balance after he sustained a back injury – and the chances of him being ready for the start of this season seemed remote. “But he’s worked hard to get himself back in physical and mental shape, and he was rewarded with a paid 11 score last Sunday, and then also finished up on the rostrum in the individual at Sheffield on Monday. It’s just like Ash has never been away.” Godfrey is looking forward to a cracking meeting against the Bears on Sunday. He said: “I think it’s going to be a belter. Redcar have three ex-Scorpions in their side in Carl Wilkinson, Richard Hall and Jan Graversen. It promises to be a terrific meeting, with great racing – and I also want a Scorpions win!” Sunday’s adult admission price for the double-header is £17. It’s just £2 more than a single Premier League meeting at the Eddie Wright Raceway, for 15 extra heats of action. The circuit rightfully has won the award, several times, for being the best racetrack in the Premier League, so a full and exciting day of racing is ahead. Adult: £17.00 Student/OAP: £15.00 Child (10 – 17): £5.00 Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult) Family Ticket £39 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-16) Match Programme: £1.00 Expected teams for Sunday (English unless stated): FluidAir Power Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Anders Mellgren (Sweden), 2. David Howe, 3. Thomas Jørgensen (Denmark), 4. Ashley Birks, 5. Josh Auty, 6. Matt Williamson, 7. Ryan Douglas (Australia). Redcar Bears: 1. Richard Lawson, 2. Carl Wilkinson, 3. Hugh Skidmore (Australia), 3. Richard Hall, 5. Aaron Summers (Australia), 6. Jan Graversen (Denmark), 7. Luke Crang. Scunthorpe Stags: 1. Lee Dicken, 2. Sam Woods, 3. Danno Verge, 4. Adam Kirby, 5. Steve Jones, 6. Liam Sanderson, 7. Ryan MacDonald (Scotland). King’s Lynn Young Stars: 1. Lewis Rose, 2. Darren Mallett, 3. James Cockle, 4. Darryl Ritchings, 5. Kyle Hughes, 6. Josh Bailey, 7. Scott Campos. Redcar Bears at EWR Luke Crang DEBUT PL MEETING @ EWR Jan Graversen PL 20 89 99 24 4.45 5,53 9 + 4 from 7 rides (2012) Richard Hall PL 44 203 376 23 7.41 7.86 17 from 6 rides (2008) Richard Lawson PL 9 37 52 5 5.62 6.16 12 + 1 from 5 rides (2012) Hugh Skidmore PL 16 76 120 10 6.32 6.84 11 + 1 from 5 rides (inc 6 pts T/R (2012)) Aaron Summers PL 12 55 74 4 5.38 5.67 10 + 1 from 6 rides (inc 4 pts T/R 2010)) Carl Wilkinson PL 85 381 694 66 7.29 7.98 16 + 1 from 6 rides (2010) Other Notes Luke Crang Rode for the Redcar Cubs in the NJL before riding for Coventry in the National League last season. Riding in his debut Premier League season with the Bears. Jan Graversen Former Scunthorpe Scorpion who won the 2010 Kenny Smith Memorial Trophy Meeting. Member of King's Lynn's Premier League Championship, Premier Trophy and KO Cup Winning Teams in 2009. Richard Hall Former Scunthorpe rider who has scored over 450 points for the club. Member of Peterborough's Elite League Championship Winning Team in 2006. Member of Peterborough's Elite League Shield Winning Team in 2007. Richard Lawson Member of Workington's Premier League Fours Winning Team in 2009. Member of Workington's Young Shield Winning Team in 2010. Named as a 'doubling-up' rider with Lakeside for the 2014 Elite League Season. Hugh Skidmore 2009 New South Wales State Champion. Made his Premier League debut in 2009 for Sheffield and now in his second season with Redcar. A rider who has rode for the Scorpions as a Guest on several occasions. Aaron Summers Member of Edinburgh's Premier League Championship and Premier Trophy Winning Teams in 2008. Member of Edinburgh's Premier League Play-Off Winning Teams in 2008 and 2009. Member of Coventry's Elite League Winning Team in 2010. Member of Birmingham's Premier League Four-Team Championship Winning Team in 2010. Carl Wilkinson Former Scunthorpe rider who is the 6th highest points scorer of all-time for the club (1207 points scored). Member of Boston's Conference League KO Cup Winning Team in 2000. Member of Peterborough's Conference League Winning Team in 1997. Redcar Bears' Results at EWR 30 March 2008 PT D Scunthorpe 45 Redcar 45 06 June 2008 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Redcar 41 19 June 2009 PL L Scunthorpe 49 Redcar 44 31 July 2009 KOC L Scunthorpe 50 Redcar 39 02 October 2009 YS L Scunthorpe 56 Redcar 34 05 April 2010 PT L Scunthorpe 50 Redcar 42 02 May 2010 PL L Scunthorpe 57 Redcar 34 09 September 2011 PL L Scunthorpe 52 Redcar 41 07 October 2011 PL Ph 2 L Scunthorpe 65 Redcar 25 27 April 2012 LC L Scunthorpe 54 Redcar 36 14 September 2012 PL L Scunthorpe 55 Redcar 38 14 June 2013 KOC W Scunthorpe 41 Redcar 49 12 July 2013 PL L Scunthorpe 45 Redcar 44 (stats courtesy of John Eyre) Scunthorpe Scorpions Team sponsors: FluidAir Power Ltd: http://www.fluidair-power.co.uk

There was a win-at-all-costs team in the 2007 Conference League - they poached a rider from Oxford while we were closed for a month by offering him more money (I never blamed the rider, good luck to him). It wasn't Scunthorpe. Ironically the "win-at-all-costs" team that year won nothing! All the best Rob I was waiting to see how long those in rant mode were going to take to realise that the Stags had signed Lee Dicken All the best Rob

Really? I add the news to the Scunthorpe website, but can't ever recall adding such a quote. Would you please like to point out where it can be found? (Mind you, I'm not sure who this "Richard Hollingworth" chap is either - do you mean Richard Hollingsworth?) And there was silly old me thinking the Stags' riders had been selected on merit and talent. Still you clearly know much better than anyone else - including on Buxton's stint in the PL. I don't think they've ever been in the PL, their promoter doesn't think they've ever been in the PL, but clearly you know better, so once again I bow to your superior knowledge. (Just double-checked Jim the Whipper didn't post on April 1.... nope he didn't... blimey he's actually being serious). All the best Rob

That's correct - it is a joint venture between the two clubs. Matt Ford also said he was letting Scunny get on with the day-to-day running of the side. All the best Rob