Thanks to Bryn for this update from last night’s race at Smallbrook Stadium, in his own words. Ed
The Wightlink Islanders got their campaign to lift the 2012 National Trophy off to a dream start at Smallbrook Stadium last night by defeating the Buxton Hitmen by 51 points to 39.
Roared on by another big holiday crowd, their margin of victory would have been even higher too but for both Kyle Hughes and Ben Hopwood suffering blown engines whilst comfortably leading heats seven and eight respectively which has left the two youngsters facing hefty repair bills.
Starke continues where he left off
Reserve Paul Starke, fresh from his victory in last week’s individual event staged at the stadium, simply carried on where he had left off in that by leading the Islanders’ march to victory with a stunning 16 (paid 17) haul from seven rides.
Not that it was a one man show though with both skipper Danny Warwick and Aaron Baseby also racing to double figure scores.
Buxton, although never really threatening to cause an upset by winning, contributing fully to what was an excellent night of high speed action.
And the Wightlink Islanders finished the match in style with a maximum heat advantage in Heat 15 as Warwick and Starke headed home Buxton’s No.1 rider Charles Wright to send their fans home in a very happy and contended frame of mind.
Match details
WIGHTLINK ISLANDERS 51 BUXTON HITMEN 39
(National Trophy)
Islanders scorers: Paul Starke 16+1, Danny Warwick 12+1, Aaron Baseby 10+1, Mark Baseby 6+1, Ben Hopwood 4+1, Danny Stoneman 2, Kyle Hughes 1.
