Scorpions plan to track unchanged side

SCUNTHORPE SCORPIONS are intending to track the same seven riders in 2021 as were due to ride for the club for the cancelled 2020 league campaign.

Earlier this week, British Speedway bosses confirmed that Championship clubs can build up to 39-points for six riders plus a youngster graded two stars or below, alternatively 38-points plus a rider with a grade of three stars and below.

It is part of a new five-year plan with the focus on the talented crop of British youngsters in both professional leagues.

With Jordan Palin rated as a two-star rider, it means that the sextet of Josh Auty, Jake Allen, Thomas Jorgensen, Tero Aarnio, Theo Pijper and Simon Lambert will fit under the allocated 39 points.

Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “It is our intention to track the same seven riders for this season as had signed up to ride for us in 2020.

“We made a commitment to those seven riders for last year and I intend to honour that commitment for this season.

“I am excited about the season ahead. A key part of team building in speedway is having a side where everyone can score.

“While there wasn’t that much speedway last year, Jordan Palin did get in quite a few meetings, both home and abroad, and he showed exactly what he’s capable of. We’re going to be rock solid and always have strength in reserve, whoever is down in those positions.”

British Speedway is planning to start its 2021 season on May 1.

The Championship will consist of either 11 or 12 teams. Somerset are taking a season out, while Plymouth have expressed an interest in joining the league. There is due to be both a league and a Knockout Cup competition.

PIC: Ian Rispin.