Robins rider ratings v Wolverhampton

SWINDON ROBINS got back to winning ways with a resounding 50-40 victory over third placed rivals Wolverhampton Wolves at the Abbey Stadium last night. TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker gives his Robins rider ratings after a night of hard-fought racing.

Swindon Robins = 50 

1. Nick Morris - F/X, 1, 3, 1 = 5
2. David Bellego - 3, 3, 1, 0 = 7
3. Adam Ellis - R, T/(ZW - 1), 3, 3 = 6
4. Tobiasz Musielak - 1, 3, T/(ZW - 2'), 2, 3 = 9
5. Troy Batchelor - 3, 1, 3, 3, 1 = 11
6. Zach Wajtknecht - 3, 1, R, 3, 2', (JS - 1), 2', 0 = 11+2
7. Jack Smith - 1, 0, (ZW - 3), 1, (ZW - 2') = 2

Wolverhampton Wolves = 40 

1. Jacob Thorssell - 2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 2 = 13
2. Ashley Morris - 1', 0, 2, 1' = 4+2
3. Kyle Howarth - 2', 3, 1', 0 = 6+2
4. Sam Masters - 3, 2', 2, 1, 0 = 8+1
5. Rory Schlein - 2, 2, 1, 0 = 5
6. Cameron Heeps - 0, 0, F/X, (TB - 1) = 0
7. Tom Bacon (Guest) - 2, 1', 0, 1, TS/(JT - 3) = 4+1

Nick Morris ©: 4

A difficult night for the Swindon Captain seen him race to five points after enduring what was a horrible third turn crash in his first heat. A crucial win in heat ten helped to increase Swindon’s advantage, but it was clear to see Morris was in discomfort whilst racing. Some recent crashes have led to the Australian struggling to get back to his best, but with him now unavailable for Wednesday’s trip to Somerset, some rest will do him good.

David Bellego: 6

Just days after his participation in the Speedway GP qualifier, Bellego went into last nights meeting looking to continue his high point scoring form. He opened the night in style by earning maximum points from his first two heats but tailed of in the meetings latter stages as he struggled to make starts. Bellego looks comfortable in the number two role and it is vital for Swindon that he performs in such a crucial position as the playoffs edge nearer.

Adam Ellis: 6

Two heat wins for Adam Ellis seen him score six points on the night as the Englishman begins to settle into his heat leader role. A retirement in his opening ride got things off to a bad start ,but two heat wins later in the meeting allowed Ellis to recover. His riding has significantly improved this season. He is quick out the gates and looks a real threat when racing, it’s no surprise that he has been called up for Team GB this upcoming weekend.

Tobiasz Musielak: 7

Just about making it on time to the meeting after being stuck in motorway traffic, Musielak put in another solid performance again a playoff competitor. Scored nine points in total and once settled into new track conditions the Polish rider looked unbeatable. Went through the tapes in nine, but it was another good nigh of racing from Musielak.

Troy Batchelor: 8

Vocal in his criticism of track conditions following last week’s meetings, Troy Batchelor certainly made good on his promise to put on a show. New shale on track meant for good racing as Batchelor raced to eleven points from fiver rides. Continuing his fine form, the Australian ace once again showed his dominance round the Blunsdon track as he pulled off daring overtakes to guarantee a Swindon victory and stop Wolves getting any bonus point.

Zach Wajtknecht: 10

A perfect ten for young Zach Wajtknecht is the least that this exciting rider deserves. Recently back from injury, Wajtknecht looked a class act on track and once again displayed his talent on a bike as he dominated riders above his level quality, racing to a paid thirteen points and earning the rider of the night award. The 19-year-old is a great asset for the Robins and you certainly notice the difference when he’s not in the side. Wajtknecht will be crucial to success this season and hopefully he can now stay injury-free.

Jack Smith: 4

A significant improvement for Smith as he finally looked to have some speed in his machinery, contesting for key points. A recent engine service was noticeable and it was good to see Smith finally get amongst the action. Only two points on the night, but he can take positives from his performances as he pushed opposition riders all the way at times.