Elite League leaders visit Purfleet Raceway

Lakeside Hammers know they cannot afford any more slip-ups as they Elite League leaders Belle Vue at the Arena-Essex Raceway tonight (Friday, 8pm).

The Vortex Hammers need a win as they aim to hold on to their place in the all-important top four and will welcome number one Andreas Jonsson back from illness after suffering a heavy defeat against the Aces in Manchester on Wednesday.

Swede Jonsson was forced to pull out of the meeting a few hours before the tapes went up and Hammers were consigned to a resounding 63-29 loss at the National Speedway Stadium in his absence.

And Hammers co-promoter Jon Cook has called on his riders to rise to the occasion and come out on top in a huge meeting for their play-off aspirations.

“Every meeting now is crucial,” said Cook. “It was a poor performance on Wednesday, there is no hiding that, although it may have been different if we had AJ riding.

“We now have to focus on the job at hand, and although it’s a blow to be without Edward Kennett, I think we’re capable of covering for him at home.

“We’re looking for everyone to step up and show how much they want to be in the play-offs. The management and the fans are hell bent on getting there, and I’ve no doubt the riders will show they are as well.”

The Hammers will operate rider replacement to cover for Kennett, who is riding for Premier League side Rye House.

Belle Vue have drafted in Swindon man Nick Morris to guest for Australian compatriot Max Fricke in the number three spot.

Meanwhile, there will be six junior races taking place prior to the main action, starting at 7.15pm.

Hammers: Andreas Jonsson, Edward Kennett R/R, Richard Lawson, Lewis Bridger, Kim Nilsson, Robert Mear, Lewis Kerr.

Aces: Matej Zagar, Steve Worrall, Nick Morris, Scott Nicholls, Craig Cook, Richie Worrall, Joe Jacobs.