What is it

When two of the countries greatest names in cycle speedway go head to head, you can expect something special. From the start it was clear that the eventual victors would be the team that made the fewer mistakes. With all but 4 of the 18 heats drawn, this was a tactical and very cagey affair, and from the spectators point of view, only the purist would appreciate. Of the few passes that there were, it required a rider of both good physical fitness and strength to carry out such a daring manoeuvre.
With the hosts two points up at the interval stage, one could be forgiven for thinking that Poole had things under control. With both Thomas Reed & Greg Gluchowski in blistering form, and with the return of slick gating Chris Roberts,
it was hard to see how the visitors could overhaul them!
Wednesfield had other ideas though. The experienced upper management got the team together at the interval and convinced their riders that if the scores could be kept close in the 2nd period, with a fortunate break, Wednesfiled could come away with the points.
They didn't have to wait long. In fact, the very next race, heat 10, saw the break materialise, in the most unlikely form as Greg Gluchowski, leading the race, paid to much attention in keeping former British Champion, Lee Aris at bay. This allowed a gap for the rapidly improving Wednesfield reserve, Luke Draisey, to say 'thank you very much'. His move up the inside brought through his partner Lee Aris. Although Greg tried to react quickly, it was too late and both the Aces were speeding away down the back straight. Greg hit a slippery patch and whilst leaning and trying to get accross his opponents, he fell heavily injuring his thigh in the process on the outside kerb.
That 7-2 heat advantage for the visitors was just what they were looking for. There wasn't to be another race where either side took an advantage. Wednesfield, who always were a great tactical side, made sure that both Poole riders (great tacticians themselves) remained behind at least one Wednesfiled rider.
Heat 18 was exceptional. Poole made the dream start with both Aaron House & the Polish sensation, Greg Gluchowski hitting the front coming out of the first bend. If it had remained that way, Poole would have won the match by one point. However, Aaron House was somehow squeezed wide on the next bend by the Wednesfield pair, and although Aaron tried in vain to get back on terms and to join his team partner, Wednesfield's cagey tactics ensured he didn't.
It was a huge battle by both teams and two great adversaries of the sport. Full credit to both teams, and particularly to the visitors Wednesfield who carved out this hard fought away victory. These points were so precious for them after losing at home to Sheffield recently.
Three of that afternoon's key races are shown in full HD quality. Special mention to for Thomas Reed, who made two classy passes of top opponents.
Its all here for you to watch. A full version of the entire match is available from me, Rob Haywood, for just £10, incl.post & packaging. To order your copy please contact me by email:-
robhaywood@hotmail.co.uk
ENJOY!