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KEY POINTS |
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It's vital that Edinburgh don't lose again at Armadale because King's Lynn and particularly Newcastle still have 100% home records at this stage. |
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Matthew Wethers should have the edge over the up-and-coming Richard Sweetman – if he and his bike have recovered from a crash in Wolves colours. |
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Edinburgh Monarchs v Birmingham Brummies |
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Friday 16th July 2010
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Premier League |
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When Birmingham caretaker owner Gary Patchett says his team is short of what is needed to win the Premier League, don't believe a word of it. A Brummies win on Friday (7.30) would put them back in pole position.
Similarly, a convincing Monarchs win would strike fear in the chasing pack who already look on Edinburgh as the team to beat. It could stretch their already convincing lead by putting a further four points in the bag and throw down the challenge to 'catch us if you can'.
Monarchs now have a perfect five away wins from five matches to Birmingham's one away win from six. And with one home defeat each, it's vital that Edinburgh don't lose again at Armadale because King's Lynn and particularly Newcastle still have 100% home records at this stage.
From the top, Ryan Fisher may be marginally ahead of the revitalised Jason Lyons in terms of the green sheet averages, but the Australian has more than enough top level speedway experience and knowledge of the Armadale track to give our Californian number one a run for his money.
Tobias Busch, fresh from his sudden heroic emergence from non-contributor to match winner at Newport, would have faced last year's popular Monarch Aaron Summers but faces rider replacement instead due to Spud's collar bone injury. Either way, it's a big challenge for our latest German recruit.
Kevin Wolbert should have a clear advantage over the fast-improving Justin Sedgmen – if our German is not riding on the continent. Similarly, skipper Matthew Wethers should have the edge over the up-and-coming Richard Sweetman – if he and his bike have recovered from a crash in Wolves colours.
Andrew Tully v Steve Johnson should be worth the admission money with the veteran Australian Elite Leaguer more likely to reach the first bend in the lead and Andy very capable of using home track experience to pass him on the back straight.
At reserve, Cal McDade will have to target taking points from Kyle Newman while our flying Finn, Kalle Katajisto, will be expected to get the better of Chris Kerr who would be making his return from a broken leg if he declares himself fit.
Man for man, Monarchs should come out on top and have the advantage of being the only winning visitors to Perry Barr this season. But this is such a vital match for the ambitions of both teams that every point will be a prisoner. Much could rest on the shoulders of Super Kalle once again.
Probable line-ups
SCOTWASTE MONARCHS: Ryan Fisher, Tobias Busch, Kevin Wolbert (or rider replacement), Matthew Wethers, Andrew Tully, Cal McDade, Kalle Katajisto.
BIRMINGHAM BRC ROOFING BRUMMIES: Jason Lyons, rider replacement for Aaron Summers, Justin Sedgmen, Richard Sweetman, Steve Johnston, Kyle Newman, Chris Kerr. |
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