Diamonds’ enforced break is a frustration
‘SURPRISED’ HAMILTON TAKES POLE NEWCASTLE LOOK TO END ON A HIGH
AFTER a three-week absence, New- castle Diamonds finally get back on track tonight against Workington Comets as they begin the last month of an up and down season that has seen them not fulfil the potential they undoubtedly have in their ranks,
It was the Comets that last did battle with a Diamonds side that was on a great run at the time, and a 45-45 draw meant Newcastle had been unbeaten in five Championship meetings including three away from Brough Park where they had picked up two draws and a win.
Team manager George English is a little frustrated at the absence of fixtures for his charges.
“We were on a good run of form and then to not race for three weeks is disappointing,” he said.
“Obviously, we can’t do a lot about the weather but having to defer to other clubs so other fixtures can be fitted in was disappointing.
“Hopefully now with most of our remaining fixtures set we can pick up where we left off and aim to finish the season as well as we can.
“We know we weren’t good enough earlier in the season and that’s what cost us. But until this enforced break we were beginning to show what we are capable of.”
The Diamonds have also been without key riders at key stages and that is the case again tonight when, Number 1, Robert Lambert must ride in Poland as his side there are involved in the end-of-season playoffs.
“It’s a far from ideal position not having Robert tonight, but it’s compounded by the fact that we can’t be granted a facility to replace him under International racing regulations,” added English.
“The BSPA have tried to help us out but to no avail.”
It means local youngster Josh Embleton whom English signed to a Diamonds contract earlier this season has to take the massive step up from junior racing to take on the #1 race jacket as the Diamonds look to take down the Comets.
“We know Josh will give us his best and go 100% for us but I really believe that the situation is far from acceptable.
“We are hopeful that Josh can become a Diamonds rider of the future but it’s a big, big ask for him to replace Robert tonight.
“We really need the rest of the team to step up and cover Robert’s absence and allow Josh to do his best and relax.
“It’s going to be a tough task as Workington have already won at Brough this season so we’re anticipating a very hard meeting.”
Tapes-up for tonight’s meeting at Brough Park are at the slightly later than normal time of 7.30pm.