Scunthorpe v Eastbourne: big match preview

HUMDINGER ALL SET FOR EDDIE WRIGHT RACEWAY

THE temperature promises to be scorching hot both on-and-off the track, as HEB Scunthorpe Scorpions entertain Eastbourne Eagles at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Friday (7.30pm).

Scorpions bring in last year’s skipper Steve Worrall as a guest for the injured Jason Garrity, while Joe Lawlor will guest for the retired Josh Bailey.

The good news is that Garrity is expected back soon following the hand injury he sustained at Redcar in the British Championship semi-final, while a new signing is due to be in place of Bailey shortly, due to a shift in points limit from 38 to 40 at the end of the month.

Scunthorpe are looking to build on an excellent 55-35 victory over Sheffield last Friday, which saw Josh Auty produce some breathtaking speedway, backed by some other great performances from the rest of the side.

Scorpions did suffer a 34-56 defeat at Eastbourne the following day, but the tight Arlington track is a very different circuit to the wide-open spaces of the Eddie Wright Raceway.

It is Eastbourne’s first visit to Scunthorpe for over 40 years.

Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “Apparently, the last time Eastbourne came to Scunny for a league match was 1978 and it was the last-ever meeting held at Quibell Park. I was still at Brumby school, so that shows you how long ago it was!

“I do think it’s going to be another thrilling night of speedway, because Eagles are a good side, with a number of quality riders in their line-up.

“It’s also noticeable that there are 13 English lads on display, which is really refreshing to see, although I’m hoping our Aussie Jake Allen comes on top against at least seven of them!

“It is going to be a belter and not one to be missed!”

Admission prices for Friday:

Adult: £16.00
Student/OAP: £14.00
Child (10 – 17): £5.00
Child (0 – 9) Free (accompanied by paying adult)
Family Ticket £37 (2 adults, 2 Children 10-17)
Match Programme: £1.00

Expected teams for Friday:

HEB Scunthorpe Scorpions: 1. Josh Auty, 2. Danny Ayres, 3. Steve Worrall (guest), 4. Stefan Nielsen, 5. Jake Allen, 6. Joe Lawlor (guest), 7. Ryan Kinsley.

Eastbourne Eagles: 1. Richard Lawson, 2. Ben Morley, 3. Kyle Newman, 4. Lewis Kerr, 5. Edward Kennett, 6. Alfie Bowtell, 7. Georgie Wood.