Wajtknecht believes in Swindon cup success

ZACH WAJTKNECHT believes the Swindon Robins have the ability to lift the Premiership Knockout Cup this season following last night’s 48-42 semi-final first leg victory at the Abbey Stadium. TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker spoke to reserve rider following the result.

A difficult league campaign has seen the Robins miss out on the Premiership playoff places and lose the chance to retain their 2017 league title. But despite the disappointment, Wajtknecht insists the cup competition is a chance to earn some silverware.

“We got the shield at the start of the year but I think people have now forgotten about that,” said Wajtknecht.

“We didn’t start last weeks meeting very well despite the weather that affected it and tonight we wanted to get off to a strong start.

“I made a mistake when leading in my first race that was a bit annoying but in the end, we got the win and it worked out well,” he said.

A closely contested meeting saw the Robins race to a six-point lead going into next week’s semi-final away leg in Norfolk. And even though Swindon has struggled for away form this season, Wajtknecht is confident of seeing his side progress to the final.

“They finished top of the league for a reason and they are a strong side,” he said.

“It’s going to be tough there but if you can get out the gate and get some clean air then we can win some races.

“We’ve been there this season and didn’t ride to badly so hopefully we can go well on the way leg.

“A six-point lead is better than having no lead,” said Wajtknecht.

“I’m not sure exactly why we have struggled away from home this season.

“I think the teams have been at a high quality and everyone is going well at their home track.

“The league has been a lot stronger and is more balanced this year,” he added.

“I don’t think at the start of the year you would’ve predicted those four teams to be in the playoffs.

“It’s been a difficult year but we now need to focus on trying to win the cup,” he said.

A big season for the Bristol-born rider has seen his average rise to new heights whilst he has become a key part of the Robins side. But whilst Wajtknecht has been in stellar fashion, he admitted that he has had to at times fulfil the roles of two reserves with counterpart Jack Smith struggling for form.

“No disrespect to Jack but yes [I’ve had to do the job of two reserves at times],” stated Wajtknecht.

“It’s difficult for Jack coming to a track like this where it’s not always easy.

“I think with Jack riding at Belle Vue for the colts it’s hard to come to Swindon where it is such a big and wide track,” he added.

“Last year I struggled but managed to find something that worked and riding for Swindon has been a learning curve for Jack,” said Wajtknecht.

Having now completed his second season in Robins kevlars, Zach Wajtknecht has made a name for himself amongst the fans as the youngster's career soars to new heights. And Wajtknecht added that he would be delighted to return to the Abbey Stadium next season.

“I’ve enjoyed it at reserve and moved into the number six spot this season,” said Wajtknecht.

“I think six is a bit harder to ride but I’ve done well.

“I haven’t really thought about moving into the main body of a team next year but whatever comes up I’ll be happy with,” he added.

“I want to get back into the Under-21 World series next year and hopefully I can be back at Swindon next season as well,” said Wajtknecht.