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Post by Administrator on Sept 3, 2011 6:45:05 GMT
Rockets Pipped at Post By Plymouth
Plymouth 46 Rye House 44 (Premier League, Friday September 2nd 2011) Despite a seemingly relentless series of misfortunes, the Silver Ski Rockets came tantalisingly close to claiming their third away win of the season - and their second at Plymouth - only to fall to a last race 5-1. Successive maximums from the pairings of Steve Boxall/Luke Bowen and Nelson/Jordan Frampton had given Rye the early advantage at 16-8, and even though the Devils fought back to take the lead after Heat 11, a further 5-1 from Boxall and – from the back – Nelson in the penultimate race handed the Rockets the advantage again at 43-41 with just a single heat to go. Unfortunately for the visitors, home stars Ben Barker and Ricky Wells trapped from the outside gates and Boxall and Frampton were unable to find a way past despite coming close on a number of occasions. On the positive side, it proved a solid return to form overall for Boxall, who finished as the Rockets’ top scorer with 10+2. Luke Bowen followed him into double figures with 9+1, while fellow second string Ritchie Hawkins was not far behind on 7+1. Ultimately, though, the Rockets were undone by a whole string of mechanical problems. Nelson hit problems when in a scoring position in Heat 2, while James Brundle (Heat 6) and Jordan Frampton (Heat 9) both failed to get beyond the start line. The worst luck, however, was undoubtedly reserved for Rye House captain Chris Neath, who seized his engine ahead of his opening race and looked unsettled when forced onto borrowed machinery for the rest of the meeting. A highly controversial exclusion after falling outside James Cockle in Heat 11 ended his night on a particular low. A dejected Rockets Team Manager John Sampford said afterwards, “There was a whole catalogue of things going wrong, which cost us points – and ultimately the match. The killer blow was Chris (Neath) having his bike seize just before Heat 1. He had just spent a grand on that engine and then that happens. “I know we game away with an away match point, but it doesn’t feel like a consolation at the moment. It’s going to be a very long drive home.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath 2 (3 rides) Ritchie Hawkins 7+1 (4) Luke Bowen 9+1 (4) Steve Boxall 10+2 (5) Jordan Frampton 6+1 (5) James Brundle 4 (4) Nelson 6+2 (5) Plymouth scorers: Ben Barker 13+1 (5 rides) Lee Smart R/R Jesper Kristiansen 10 (4) Justin Sedgmen 3+1 (4) Ricky Wells 10+2 (6) Gino Franchetti 1+1 (4) James Cockle 9 (7) Matt Bates (No.8) DNR Match Points: Plymouth 2 Rye House
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Post by Administrator on Sept 4, 2011 9:51:03 GMT
Bring ‘Em On: Plymouth (PL) and Scunthorpe-Sheffield (NL) (Sunday, September 11th @ 2pm) The focus at Rye House switches back to League action as both the Silver Ski Rockets and the Hackney Hawks take to the track in a double header fixture at Hoddesdon on Sunday, September 11th. First on the agenda will be the Premier League clash between the Rockets and Plymouth. The Devils belied their lowly position in the table when they were last in town on July 30th, fighting hard all the way before ultimately succumbing 54-41. World Cup star Ben Barker led their charge with 15 on that occasion, with the rider ranked No.1 in the national standings ably backed by American Ricky Wells, the 2009 AMA National Champion, who powered to 11. The same duo were also key contributors to the Devils’ narrow 46-44 success when the two sides met in Devon on Friday. Also set to see action are former two year Stoke Potter Jesper Kristiansen, 2009 Italian national titlist and Grand Prix Wildcard Gino Franchetti, NLRC finalist and former Rye House Raider James Cockle and new addition Justin Sedgmen, who has signed on from Newport to replace the injured Hynek Stichauer. Fifteen heats of Premier League combat will be followed by fifteen more, as the Hackney Hawks’ regular National League programme reaches its climax with a fixture that could yet decide their ambitions of post-season play in the Championship Play-Offs. The opposition will be provided by a side that already looks set to feature in the final four, the combined Scunthorpe-Sheffield outfit. The Hawks will need little reminding of the 66-24 nightmare they endured in Lincolnshire back in May, although the clear focus this time around will be a victory by a “mere” seven points or more in order to secure all three match points. The action starts at 2pm. There will be no additional admission charge for the National League match; standard Premier League prices apply. Forthcoming Fixtures at Rye House Sunday, September 11th Rockets vs Plymouth (Premier League) 2.00pm followed by Hawks vs Scunthorpe-Sheffield (NL) Sunday, September 18th Reserved; National League 2.00pm Saturday, September 24th Rockets vs Sheffield (Premier League) 7.00pm
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Post by Administrator on Sept 6, 2011 12:05:59 GMT
Ace of Herts: Fireworks on the Way Although still nearly two months away, the Ace of Herts individual championship on October 30th (6pm start) looks set to bring the curtain down on the Rye House season in spectacular fashion. The show will climax with the gigantic fireworks display that traditionally ends the Hoddesdon season, but there should be plenty of fireworks on the circuit ahead of that. Former Rocket Tai Woffinden – now a World Cup and Elite League star with Wolverhampton – has already confirmed that he will be part of the championship field, while promoter Len Silver is very close to agreeing the inclusion of a further former Rye favourite. Watch this space on that one. Beyond the main Ace of Herts programme, the meeting is set to feature the "King of Herts" Short Track Championship will be contested by the 11 best Short Track riders in the country…. plus Silver Ski Rocket Nelson who is a star performer in this discipline. Finally, after the pyrotechnics have died down, the evening will be rounded out in the "Long Bar" with the annual election of "Mr Rocket". It is all building toward a terrific and extensive night of entertainment - one that will definitely help get supporters through the “cold turkey” of the close season!
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Post by Administrator on Sept 7, 2011 17:14:50 GMT
Just in Case: It’s King’s Lynn on the 18th – and at a Special Price! While the Hackney Hawks are still targeting the outside chance of a top four National League finish – their final position will ultimately be determined by their results at Stoke (Saturday) and at home to the combined Scunthorpe-Sheffield team (Sunday) - promoter Len Silver has announced a fall-back fixture for Sunday the 18th in the event that the Hawks are not involved in the home leg of the Play-Offs on this date. The opposition, instead, will be provided by the King’s Lynn Young Stars in a challenge fixture, and as a special thank you to supporters a flat rate admission charge will apply for adults, seniors and children of just £5. (Children under 7 will be admitted free.) Additionally, Silver has declared his intention to the National League of competing in next season’s competition as the Rye House Raiders, rather than the Hackney Hawks, given the much stronger relevance of the former name to the majority of Hoddesdon supporters. The team to take to the track against the Young Stars will indeed be billed under this title. Further comments on the 2012 direction will appear in the “Lens’ Lines” section of this Sunday’s programme. The meeting on the 18th will start at 2pm. On a separate subject, Rye House will play host to the 6th and final round of the 2011 Pozzani Grand National UK Flat-track Championship on Saturday, September 17th. Practice is at 5pm, with the first race scheduled for 7pm. Admission is: Adults £10, Concessions £8, Juniors (12-15) £3, Kids Free. For further details, please log on to www.shorttrackuk.com.
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Post by Administrator on Sept 9, 2011 8:03:24 GMT
Sheffield vs Rye House: It’s Déjà Vu All Over Again Sheffield 69 Rye House 21 (Premier League, Thursday September 8th 2011) It wasn’t pretty when the Silver Ski Rockets visited Owlerton in July – suffering a 64-29 mauling – but it passed the threshold of downright ugly this time around as the Tigers pushed on toward clinching second place in the League table. A relentless run of heat advantages – five 5-1s and three 4-2s – meant that this match was already long over as a contest - at 37-11 - by the time Jordan Frampton posted the Rockets’ only race win of the night in Heat 9. As in Rye’s previous visit, whatever limited luck was going was bad, with Nelson snapping his front forks on the third lap of Heat 8 when destined for victory and Steve Boxall’s machine failing to get off the line in the previous race. Either way, though, it was always going to be a very long night. A shell-shocked Rye House Team Manager John Sampford said afterwards that “It was just a nightmare from the word go. Our riders were chopping and changing bikes just to get out there and race. Nelson was on borrowed equipment virtually all night – he was on Chris Neath’s bike when the front forks went – and Steve Boxall blew a new engine right at the start of his second race. And with Sheffield such a strong team as well, there was simply no relief. We were pressured all night.” The Rockets will be aiming to regroup for Sunday’s home clash against the Plymouth Devils, who will field World Cup star Ben Barker, American ace Ricky Wells and – subject to international clearance – new signing Travis “The Moose McGowan”. That match will be followed in the second half of a double header by Hackney’s final fixture of the regular season against the combined Scunthorpe-Sheffield outfit, who include British U-21 runner-up Steve Worrall, Ashley Birks and 2006 Rocket Lee Smethills in their line-up. The action starts at 2pm, with admission prices pegged to their regular Premier League levels. Rye House scorers: Chris Neath 2 (3 rides) Ritchie Hawkins 3 (4) Luke Bowen 1 (4) Steve Boxall 4 (5 rides, inc 0 as a TR) Jordan Frampton 8 (5 rides, inc 3 as a TR) James Brundle 2 (5) Nelson 1 (4) Sheffield scorers: Shane Parker 10+2 (4 rides, maximum) Hugh Skidmore 9+1 (4) Ricky Ashworth 13+1 (5) Emiliano Sanchez 5+2 (4) Josh Auty 15 (5 rides, maximum) Simon Lambert 9+3 (4 rides, maximum) Ashley Birks 8+2 (4) Match Points: Sheffield 3 Rye House 0
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Post by Administrator on Sept 10, 2011 16:17:07 GMT
Sunday's Double Header - Postponed
With heavy rain forecast both this afternoon (Saturday the 10th) and intermittently tomorrow, the early decision has been made to postpone Sunday's double header at Rye House. The meeting - Silver Ski Rockets vs Plymouth and Hackney Hawks vs Scunthorpe/Sheffield -wIll now be staged a week later, on Sunday the 18th at 2pm, replacing the Raiders-King's Lynn Challenge fixture. .
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Post by Administrator on Sept 12, 2011 16:26:13 GMT
Double Header Becomes Single Header Sunday’s (September 18th @ 2pm) rescheduled meeting at Rye House – originally proposed as a double header – will now be a single match only, as the Silver Ski Rockets contend with Ben Barker and the rest of the Plymouth Devils in Premier League action. The National League match between Hackney and the combined Scunthorpe-Sheffield team – originally allocated to the Arena-Essex Raceway earlier in the season – will now indeed be staged at Lakeside as a separate fixture.
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Post by Administrator on Sept 17, 2011 21:32:20 GMT
Berwick vs Rye House: It’s Déjà Vu All Over Again (Part II) Berwick 43 Rye House 41 (abandoned – curfew – result stands) (Premier League, Saturday September 17th 2011) If the Silver Ski Rockets’ two trips to Sheffield this season have smacked of the movie Groundhog Day, then this match took the association to whole new level. Bear in mind that the last time that Rye House won at Shielfield Park was some 34 years ago, way back in July 1977. After a history of disappointing results at the venue, the Rockets came remarkably close to ending that run this July when – despite losing Chris Neath to a viral infection and Jordan Frampton to a heat 7 tumble – they led by 8 points at one stage, only to finally succumb to the heartbreak of a Heat 13 5-1 as the match was called short, at 40-38, due to curfew requirements. Tonight’s match followed a remarkably similar pattern. Once again, the Rockets had to contend without captain Chris Neath, who suffered concussion when practicing on his motocross bike yesterday. Once again, they were strongly in contention throughout. And once again, a series of delays meant that the fixture once again failed to go the distance, although the result will stand. A run of injuries meant that the Bandits were only able to field three of their regular line-up, with Linus Eklof making his Berwick debut. The remaining positions were filled by three guests, plus the Rider-Replacement facility. And Eklof himself was ruled out after a first ride tangle with Luke Bowen. That was just one of several hold-ups, with others coming from a floodlight failure and repairs to the safety fence after Heat 7. Overall, it proved a magnificent night for Ritchie Hawkins. The 27 year old rode for Berwick back in 2004 and clearly remembered the fastest way around Shielfield Park some seven seasons later, posting three wins in a 10 point tally. Hawkins’ final success came in Heat 11 when he partnered Jordan Frampton to the 5-1 that brought Rye level at 33-33. Luke Bowen bounced back after two pointless rides to win the next race, and was followed home by Nelson as the Rockets suddenly took a four point advantage. That lead was cancelled out four laps later as home captain Lee Complin bravely worked his way around Hawkins and inside Frampton to join guest Kevin Doolan for the 5-1 that made the score 39-39. There was time for one last race, and unfortunately it brought heartbreak for the Rockets as Nelson fell chasing leader Ricky Wells on the final lap. Steve Boxall had found a way past Adam McKinna a lap earlier for what proved to be second spot, but the resultant 4-2 handed Berwick the narrowest of victories. Despite his obvious disappointment in the nature of the defeat, Rye House Team Manager John Sampford was proud of his side. “Every one of them gave everything. Five of the side won races which is a clear demonstration of the all-round effort they put in”. And about the Heat 14 decider? “Nelson was chasing hard after Ricky Wells. If he had passed him, we’d have won. If he hadn’t, but he’d stayed on, we’d have drawn. It was his seventh ride of the night and he was getting tired. But you can’t fault him for effort. His racing instinct just kicked in.” The Rockets face a long journey home to Hoddesdon, where they face fellow long-distance travellers Plymouth tomorrow (Sunday the 18th) in more Premier League action. The meeting starts at 2pm. Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 10 (5 rides) Luke Bowen 3 (3) Steve Boxall 10 (5) Jordan Frampton 9+1 (5) James Brundle 0 (3) Nelson 9+2 (7) Berwick scorers: Kevin Doolan (guest) 11 (4 rides) Josef Franc R/R Linus Eklof 0 (1) Ricky Wells (guest) 9+2 (5) Lee Complin 10 (5) Adam McKinna (guest) 6+1 (7) Jade Mudgway 7+1 (7) Match Points: Berwick 2 Rye House 1
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Post by Administrator on Sept 18, 2011 20:14:33 GMT
Boxmeister Max as Rockets Master Devils Rye House 56 Plymouth 35 (Premier League, Sunday September 18th 2011) Steve Boxall bagged his first maximum since returning to Rye House as the Silver Ski Rockets had little difficulty in seeing off the Devils. The Boxmeister has been on the comeback trail in 2011 after three so-called “wilderness years”, but has struggled for speed in the second half of the season. He put his mechanical problems firmly behind him here, though, with five faultless displays. That was despite the after-effects of a nasty crash when Jesper Kristiansen lifted slightly and brought him down on the second bend in the first staging of Heat 10. Boxall soldiered through the re-run and a further win in Heat 14, but wisely opted out of the nominated heat. With Luke Bowen and Jordan Frampton also racing into double figures, and the rest of the Rockets solid in support, this match was only ever going to take one direction. But if the emotion belonged to Boxall, much of the excitement centred on visiting No.1 Ben Barker. The Cornishman was on the wrong end of an emphatic 5-1 from Boxall and Bowen in Heat 5, – one of five maximums and nine heat advantages that the Rockets dished out – but was otherwise undefeated. Twice he featured in thrilling duels with Jordan Frampton. The first in Heat 11 saw the lead exchanged several times over the first two laps before Barker pulled clear. The second – even closer – saw Barker stalk his man for the duration before finally using tremendous track craft to sneak past Frampton right on the line. Ricky Wells and Jesper Kristiansen added to Barker’s four race wins, but their inconsistency, plus a very long tail, ensured that Rye had the victory effectively sewn up long before they mathematically made sure of things in Heat 10. Speaking afterwards, Steve Boxall was delighted to claim his first full house of the campaign. “It was really good today. I’ve had two motors done, and they’ve both been really good. They still need a few adjustments, but hopefully I can turn my season around over the last few matches. I’m very confident that I can. “The last few weeks have played on my mind. You start to question whether it’s the speed, the bikes or your own ability. But I seem to have got things sorted now. I had a good away match at Berwick last night as well, and hopefully I can push on from here. “I’m sure that we can move up the table in the final month of the season. We’ve got a string of home matches to come, and there aren’t many teams that can beat us around here. I also enjoy riding Derwent Park, so I’m looking forward to our final away match at Workington on Saturday.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 7+1 (5 rides) Luke Bowen 11+3 (6) Steve Boxall 14+1 (5 rides, maximum) Jordan Frampton 13+1 (6) James Brundle 4+1 (4) Nelson 7+1 (4) Plymouth scorers: Ben Barker 13 (5 rides, inc 1 as a TR) Justin Sedgmen R/R Jesper Kristiansen 6 (5) Kyle Hughes 1 (3) Ricky Wells 10 (6 rides, inc 2 as a TR) Gino Franchetti 4 (6 rides) James Cockle 1 (5) Match Points: Rye House 3 Plymouth 0 Barker Named to Ace of Herts Fresh from his tremendous 13 point haul for the Devils at Rye House, Plymouth No.1 Ben Barker has been added to the field for the season-closing Ace of Herts Championship at Hoddesdon on Sunday October 30th (6pm start). The 23 year old has enjoyed a remarkable campaign that has seen him top the national Premier League averages, buzz around the top of Birmingham’s Elite League standings and represent Great Britain in the World Cup. He will be the favourite for next Sunday’s Premier League Riders Championship at Sheffield, and also looks set to represent the Brummies in the Elite League Riders event. Barker will go head-to-head with the already named Tai Woffinden – look out for that collision! - in the Ace of Herts, which will also feature the Silver Ski Rockets. If that isn’t enough, the event will incorporate the "King of Herts" Short Track Championship, which will be contested by the 11 best Short Track riders in the country - plus Nelson who is a star performer in this discipline – and be capped off by a massive fireworks display and the post-meeting naming of the “Mr Rocket” rider of the year. Bring ‘Em On: Sheffield (September 24th @ 7pm) The Silver Ski Rockets face what is both their toughest on paper and, almost certainly, most difficult on-track Second Phase home fixture as they tackle Sheffield at Rye House on Saturday (September 24th). The Tigers are set to finish second in the Premier League table behind champions-elect Glasgow, and since being edged by Rye 46-44 back in March have pummelled the Hertfordshire side 64-29 and 69-21 in two subsequent matches in Yorkshire. Saturday’s meeting will bring a last-ever appearance at Rye House for visiting No.1 Shane Parker, who is retiring at the end of this – his 22nd – season of British racing. The self-proclaimed “Firestarter” will be joined in the Tigers’ ranks by 2009 Premier League Riders’ Champion Ricky Ashworth and Josh Auty, who combined together to win last year’s League Pairs title. Sheffield’s middle order is ably covered by 20 year old Aussie Hugh Skidmore and Emiliano Sanchez, who is a four-time national champion – twice Argentinean, twice Italian – while 2010 NLRC bronze medallist Simon Lambert and fast-developing British U-21 Finalist Ashley Birks fill the reserve berths. The action starts at 7pm. Remaining 2011 Fixtures at Rye House Saturday, September 24th Rockets vs Sheffield (Premier League) 7.00pm Sunday, October 2nd Rockets vs Scunthorpe (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 9th Rockets vs Workington (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 16th Rockets vs Ipswich (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 23rd Rockets vs Berwick (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 30th Ace of Herts Championship + Fireworks 6.00pm
Boxmeister Max as Rockets Master Devils Rye House 56 Plymouth 35 (Premier League, Sunday September 18th 2011) Steve Boxall bagged his first maximum since returning to Rye House as the Silver Ski Rockets had little difficulty in seeing off the Devils. The Boxmeister has been on the comeback trail in 2011 after three so-called “wilderness years”, but has struggled for speed in the second half of the season. He put his mechanical problems firmly behind him here, though, with five faultless displays. That was despite the after-effects of a nasty crash when Jesper Kristiansen lifted slightly and brought him down on the second bend in the first staging of Heat 10. Boxall soldiered through the re-run and a further win in Heat 14, but wisely opted out of the nominated heat. With Luke Bowen and Jordan Frampton also racing into double figures, and the rest of the Rockets solid in support, this match was only ever going to take one direction. But if the emotion belonged to Boxall, much of the excitement centred on visiting No.1 Ben Barker. The Cornishman was on the wrong end of an emphatic 5-1 from Boxall and Bowen in Heat 5, – one of five maximums and nine heat advantages that the Rockets dished out – but was otherwise undefeated. Twice he featured in thrilling duels with Jordan Frampton. The first in Heat 11 saw the lead exchanged several times over the first two laps before Barker pulled clear. The second – even closer – saw Barker stalk his man for the duration before finally using tremendous track craft to sneak past Frampton right on the line. Ricky Wells and Jesper Kristiansen added to Barker’s four race wins, but their inconsistency, plus a very long tail, ensured that Rye had the victory effectively sewn up long before they mathematically made sure of things in Heat 10. Speaking afterwards, Steve Boxall was delighted to claim his first full house of the campaign. “It was really good today. I’ve had two motors done, and they’ve both been really good. They still need a few adjustments, but hopefully I can turn my season around over the last few matches. I’m very confident that I can. “The last few weeks have played on my mind. You start to question whether it’s the speed, the bikes or your own ability. But I seem to have got things sorted now. I had a good away match at Berwick last night as well, and hopefully I can push on from here. “I’m sure that we can move up the table in the final month of the season. We’ve got a string of home matches to come, and there aren’t many teams that can beat us around here. I also enjoy riding Derwent Park, so I’m looking forward to our final away match at Workington on Saturday.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 7+1 (5 rides) Luke Bowen 11+3 (6) Steve Boxall 14+1 (5 rides, maximum) Jordan Frampton 13+1 (6) James Brundle 4+1 (4) Nelson 7+1 (4) Plymouth scorers: Ben Barker 13 (5 rides, inc 1 as a TR) Justin Sedgmen R/R Jesper Kristiansen 6 (5) Kyle Hughes 1 (3) Ricky Wells 10 (6 rides, inc 2 as a TR) Gino Franchetti 4 (6 rides) James Cockle 1 (5) Match Points: Rye House 3 Plymouth 0 Barker Named to Ace of Herts Fresh from his tremendous 13 point haul for the Devils at Rye House, Plymouth No.1 Ben Barker has been added to the field for the season-closing Ace of Herts Championship at Hoddesdon on Sunday October 30th (6pm start). The 23 year old has enjoyed a remarkable campaign that has seen him top the national Premier League averages, buzz around the top of Birmingham’s Elite League standings and represent Great Britain in the World Cup. He will be the favourite for next Sunday’s Premier League Riders Championship at Sheffield, and also looks set to represent the Brummies in the Elite League Riders event. Barker will go head-to-head with the already named Tai Woffinden – look out for that collision! - in the Ace of Herts, which will also feature the Silver Ski Rockets. If that isn’t enough, the event will incorporate the "King of Herts" Short Track Championship, which will be contested by the 11 best Short Track riders in the country - plus Nelson who is a star performer in this discipline – and be capped off by a massive fireworks display and the post-meeting naming of the “Mr Rocket” rider of the year. Bring ‘Em On: Sheffield (September 24th @ 7pm) The Silver Ski Rockets face what is both their toughest on paper and, almost certainly, most difficult on-track Second Phase home fixture as they tackle Sheffield at Rye House on Saturday (September 24th). The Tigers are set to finish second in the Premier League table behind champions-elect Glasgow, and since being edged by Rye 46-44 back in March have pummelled the Hertfordshire side 64-29 and 69-21 in two subsequent matches in Yorkshire. Saturday’s meeting will bring a last-ever appearance at Rye House for visiting No.1 Shane Parker, who is retiring at the end of this – his 22nd – season of British racing. The self-proclaimed “Firestarter” will be joined in the Tigers’ ranks by 2009 Premier League Riders’ Champion Ricky Ashworth and Josh Auty, who combined together to win last year’s League Pairs title. Sheffield’s middle order is ably covered by 20 year old Aussie Hugh Skidmore and Emiliano Sanchez, who is a four-time national champion – twice Argentinean, twice Italian – while 2010 NLRC bronze medallist Simon Lambert and fast-developing British U-21 Finalist Ashley Birks fill the reserve berths. The action starts at 7pm. Remaining 2011 Fixtures at Rye House Saturday, September 24th Rockets vs Sheffield (Premier League) 7.00pm Sunday, October 2nd Rockets vs Scunthorpe (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 9th Rockets vs Workington (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 16th Rockets vs Ipswich (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 23rd Rockets vs Berwick (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 30th Ace of Herts Championship + Fireworks 6.00pm
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Post by Administrator on Sept 22, 2011 14:07:15 GMT
Neath to Miss Weekend Action Still affected by the concussion he suffered in last week’s moto-cross accident, Rye House captain Chris Neath will remain on the sidelines for both the Silver Ski Rockets’ home match against Sheffield on Saturday and the following evening’s Premier League Riders Championship. The Rockets will operate Rider-Replacement for the Tigers fixture, with Team Manager John Sampford explaining, “With ten teams, including ourselves, in action on Saturday night, our guest options are strictly limited. We have decided that we will get as much out of the situation by working with our own resources. “Chris is due to see his doctor again at the beginning of next week, but you just never know with a concussion how long the recovery period will be. All we can do is take it day by day, week by week.”
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Post by Administrator on Sept 25, 2011 9:21:21 GMT
Rockets Sneak Home Against Tigers Rye House 47 Sheffield 44 (Premier League, Saturday September 24th 2011) Monster hauls from Nelson and Luke Bowen helped the Silver Ski Rockets to secure a hard-earned victory against the team earmarked for second place in this year’s Premier League table. Aussie Nelson reeled off no less than five wins in seven starts to finish with 16, with the clear highlight a scintillating from-the-back success over 2009 Premier league Riders Champion Ricky Ashworth in Heat 14. Local hero Bowen, meanwhile, followed up Sunday’s paid 14 tally against Plymouth with a 15 total here. It was as well for the Rockets that Nelson and Bowen were on fire, as they clearly missed No.1 Chris Neath. The Rye House captain remains sidelined with concussion, and the Rider-Replacement facility netted a far from compensating 5 points. Additionally, Steve Boxall – who was questionable during the week following a heavy tumble during his maximum against Plymouth – probably wished that he’d stayed at home. The Boxmeister won Heat 5, but those 3 points proved the extent of his contribution as a post-meeting examination of his bike revealed a plug lead had been misrouted and shorting out on his fins all night. Match-wise, the Rockets quickly recovered from a Sheffield 5-1 in the opening race to surge to a 32-20 advantage at Heat 9. A 6 point Tactical win from Ashworth helped spark the visitors back to life, however, and although Nelson’s fifth win of the night ensured Rye of the overall victory with a heat to spare, a last race success by Shane Parker – in his final outing at Hoddesdon given his pending retirement – ensured the Tigers a match point from the fixture. Speaking after the meeting, Harlow Flyer Bowen had mixed feelings about this week’s meetings. “I should have got 16 on Sunday against Plymouth but my engine let go in the last race, and the crank pin broke up. That’s going to be an expensive bill; about a grand to repair. So, although tonight’s been a good night’s work – I wasn’t coming off the starts but I had so much speed - all the money has gone into the engine”. It’s been a long road back from injury, but the Bowen 747 feels that he’s finally heading in the right direction. “Since I broke my arm, I haven’t really had the feeling confidence-wise that I had before. When you’re at the tapes, you need that anticipation that you’re going to be there at the first corner. I’ve got that feeling back again now.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 6+1 (4 rides) Luke Bowen 14+1 (6) Steve Boxall 3 (5) Jordan Frampton 7+1 (5) James Brundle 1 (3) Nelson 16 (7) Sheffield scorers: Shane Parker 10+1 (5 rides) Hugh Skidmore 4 (4) Emiliano Sanchez 5+1 (4) Ricky Ashworth 13 (4 rides, inc 6 as a TR) Josh Auty 8 (5) Ashley Birks 0 (4) Simon Lambert 4+1 (4) Match Points: Rye House 2 Sheffield 1 Rockets on the Road: Workington The Silver Ski Rockets face their final away venture of their 2011 Premier League campaign when they make the long haul to Cumbria to tackle Workington next Saturday (October 1st) It will be a tough challenge for the Rockets, who dissolved 60-34 on their last match at Derwent Park in May and will be up against a Comets side that is still chasing down third spot in the final League table. While the Cumbrians remain unbeaten at home, however, injuries have taken their toll on their recent form and they were recently pushed all the way by Newport in the Knock-Out Cup (46-44) as the Wasps ousted them on aggregate at the Semi-Final stage. The Rockets’ date at Derwent will still leave three outstanding home matches at Rye House – the return against the Comets (October 9th), an East Anglian clash against Ipswich (16th) and the League finale against Berwick (23rd) – before the curtain comes down on the 2011 season with the annual staging of the Ace of Herts championship, complete with a massive fireworks display and the presentation of the “Mr Rocket” rider of the year award on October 30th. Bring ‘Em On: Scunthorpe (Sunday, October 2nd @ 2pm) The Silver Ski Rockets and the Scorpions will be hoping it’s a case of “third time lucky” as the 2011 season enters its final month. The Rye House-Scunthorpe Premier League fixture has twice fallen foul of wet weather, but provides the next action at Hoddesdon on Sunday, October 2nd. The Scorpions will be headed into town by 2008 Grand Prix Qualifier Semi-Finalist – and 2010 PLRC runner-up – David Howe, although there is much more to them than that. The exciting Carl Wilkinson is now back in action, having just replaced the sidelined Tero Aarnio, while 2006 British U-21 Champion Ben Wilson is representing the side in tomorrow’s Premier League Riders Championship and Richard Hall has recently returned to his 2008 stamping ground to replace the injured Viktor Bergstrom. There will be first Hoddesdon visits from newcomers Thomas Jorgensen and Michael Palm Toft, who have quickly settled into 6 ½ and 6 point men, respectively, for the Lincolnshire side. Only this weekend, Toft has blasted much-improved Newport for paid scores of 14 and 16! The Scorpions are rounded out by fast developing British U-21 Bronze winner and World U-21 competitor Steven Worrall, who was one of the “Misters Unlucky” in the recent National League Riders Championship at Rye House. The action starts at 2pm. Remaining 2011 Fixtures at Rye House Sunday, October 2nd Rockets vs Scunthorpe (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 9th Rockets vs Workington (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 16th Rockets vs Ipswich (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 23rd Rockets vs Berwick (Premier League) 2.00pm Sunday, October 30th Ace of Herts Championship + Fireworks 6.00pm
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Post by Administrator on Sept 25, 2011 20:31:49 GMT
Nightmare For Frampton at PLRC Premier League Riders Championship (Sheffield, Sunday September 25th 2011) 1st Sam Masters (Somerset) 2nd Ricky Ashworth (Sheffield) 3rd Kauko Nieminen (Leicester) It proved a night to forget for Rye House representative Jordan Frampton at the Premier League Riders Championship, as Sheffield’s Owlerton circuit confirmed its role as a racing graveyard for the Silver Ski Rockets in 2011. The Rockets’ stand-in captain had previously been the team’s one bright spark in two League visits to Yorkshire and also made the cut in his British Championship Semi-Final there in May. Any pre-meeting optimism this time around quickly evaporated, however, as he briefly challenged eventual race winner Ricky Ashworth for second place in his opening ride, only to finish on his back after hitting the fence in a last ditch effort to get around Sean Wilson. It unfortunately set the tone for Frampton’s meeting, as the 26 year old gathered in just a point from his remaining rides. Somerset’s Sam Masters was the surprise winner of the Super 7even event, dropping just two points in the main 20 race programme and then storming home in the winner-takes-all Grand Final from 2009 Riders Champion Ricky Ashworth, who surged around Kauko Nieminen on the last lap for second place. Pre-meeting favourite Ben Barker finished fourth. Main 20 Heat Programme (each from 5 rides unless stated): Sam Masters 13, Ricky Ashworth 12 (both qualify for Grand Final), Ben Barker 11, Kauko Nieminen 11, Seb Alden 10, Jason Doyle 10 (qualify for Semi-Final), Rusty Harrison 9, Kevin Doolan 8, Shane Parker 8, Kevin Wölbert 7, Mark Lemon 5, Joe Screen 4, Ben Wilson 4, Aaron Summers 4, Jordan Frampton 1, Charlie Gjedde 0 (2 rides) Reserves: Tom Wooley 1 (2), Luke Chessell 0 (2) Semi-Final Race-Off (first two to Grand Final): Ben Barker, Kauko Nieminen, Seb Alden, Jason Doyle Grand Final: Sam Masters, Ricky Ashworth, Kauko Nieminen, Ben Barker
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Post by Administrator on Oct 1, 2011 21:04:36 GMT
Rockets Feel the Heat at Workington Workington 55 Rye House 36 (Premier League, Saturday October 1st 2011) On the hottest October day in recorded history, it was the Silver Ski Rockets who got burned in their final away match of the season at Workington, although Nelson and Ritchie Hawkins managed to set the night on fire in the individual stakes. 18 year old Aussie Nelson rattled off four race wins – including a Heat 4 success in the fastest time by any visiting rider to Derwent Park in 2011, and also ended Richard Lawson’s maximum hopes in the final race of the night to total out with 15. Hawkins was not far behind, holding off the Comets No.1 Rusty Harrison to win the opening race and also bagging a paid victory in Heat 15 as part of his paid 13 tally. Unfortunately for Rye, matters were less positively elsewhere. Captain Chris Neath remains sidelined with concussion – the Rockets continue to operate Rider-Replacement as cover – while reserve James Brundle has now joined him on the sidelines following a wrist injury in Wednesday’s International Young Guns event at King’s Lynn. Buxton rookie Ryan Blacklock was drafted in to replace him in Cumbria, while Hackney Hawk Ben Morley – who started the year as a doubling-up Rocket – will get a shot against Scunthorpe at Hoddesdon tomorrow (Sunday, October 2nd @ 2pm). The Rockets also suffered mechanically in Cumbria, as Team Manager John Sampford explained afterwards. “Jordan (Frampton) had no end of bike trouble, while Luke (Bowen) was on an 8-1 with Nelson when nominated for double points as a Tactical Rider in Heat 12, only for his engine to blow on the last bend. Unfortunately, that means another big bill to go with the one at Rye against Plymouth. He really is in the wars at the moment money-wise.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 12+1 (6 rides, inc 2 as a TR) Luke Bowen 4+1 (5 rides, inc 0 as a TR) Steve Boxall 3+1 (5) Jordan Frampton 2 (4) Ryan Blacklock (guest) 0 (3) Nelson 15 (7) Workington scorers Rusty Harrison 9 (4 rides) Peter Kildemand R/R Simon Nielsen 4+1 (4) Richard Lawson 15+1 (6) Adam Roynon (guest) 11+2 (6) Jamie Courtney (guest) 2+1 (3) Kenny Ingalls 14+3 (7) Match Points: Workington 3 Rye House 0
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Post by Administrator on Oct 2, 2011 16:15:42 GMT
Frampton Out, Masters In
Breaking news this morning (Sunday) is that in addition to his machinery problems last night at Workington, Silver Ski Rocket Jordan Framoron suffered an aggravation to the wrist and shoulder injuries he originally sustained at the PLRC.
With Rye No. 1 Chris Neath already sidelined with concussion, the Rockets have moved quickly to book Premier League Riders Champion Sam Masters as a guest for today's home clash against Scunthorpe, with Rider-Replacement operating to fill the other gap.
As mentioned in last night's release, Ben Morley will deputise for the injured James Brundle at reserve.
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Post by Administrator on Oct 2, 2011 20:40:37 GMT
Another Day, Another Injury: Rockets Win Marred By Bowen Blow Rye House 47 Scunthorpe 43 (Premier League, Sunday October 2nd 2011) An unfortunate injury to Luke Bowen marred a passionate and thrilling victory by the Silver Ski Rockets over a strong Scunthorpe outfit. The Harlow Flyer spun on the second bend of Heat 3, clipping rival Thomas Jorgensen’s rear wheel in the process, with his machine flying into the air and coming down on top of him. After an hour’s delay while the County Ambulance was organised and a transfer arranged, Bowen was taken to hospital for x-rays on a potentially fractured ankle, having also suffered concussion and a possible rib injury. The 25 year old joins a Rye House injury list that started with Chris Neath’s concussion, and has rapidly expanded in the last few days to take in Jordan Frampton (aggravated shoulder and wrist injuries) and James Brundle, who is still waiting for the swelling on his wrist to subside after Wednesday’s smash at King’s Lynn to enable x-rays to determine whether he has suffered a broken wrist. Remarkably, the remaining Rockets banded together in true backs-to-the-wall fashion to win out against the Scorpions, with Nelson once again the clear man of the match. The Aussie teenager blasted to three full wins – plus one paid success – in a monster paid 17 haul that was topped off by a spectacular Heat 4 in which he worked his way past Carl Wilkinson on the second lap and then stalked leader Steve Worrall before driving inside coming off the last bend to claim victory. The breathtaking reserve received excellent support from Ritchie Hawkins, who recovered from an opening race duck to reel off successive wins in a paid 10 tally, while special mention should also be made of Ben Morley. The 17 year old started the season as a Rocket before losing his place to James Brundle, but showed that he has regained his confidence in the National League with Hackney by delivering a critical paid 7. While the Rockets were behind only briefly - and remarkably led by 10 points at one stage - they had no answer to Scunthorpe No.1 David Howe, who bagged a faultless five ride maximum. Richard Hall was also a key contributor for the Lincolnshire side, although even he will admit that he was lucky to receive a second bite at the cherry in Heat 14. Hall and Worrall were trailing behind Steve Boxall and Nelson when Worrall fell on the fourth bend of lap two. After the referee was forced to stop the race and disqualify Worrall, Hall made no mistake in the re-run, popping out of the gate for a tapes-to-flag victory. Just to prove that was no fluke, he then followed up with second spot behind Howe in the final race as the Scorpions grabbed a last ditch 5-1 to snag a match point for their efforts. Talking after the meeting, Nelson reviewed some of the key things that have clicked for him as the season has worn on. “My starting is definitely getting better, and I’m learning now how to work with the team. I must admit I was pretty bad at team riding at the start of the year. “I’ve also got a good engine tuner, and he’s doing the best he can for me to get me going a bit better. And I seem to doing that everywhere now. “Hopefully, it all forms the basis for next year.” Rye House scorers: Chris Neath R/R Ritchie Hawkins 9+1 (5 rides) Luke Bowen 0 (1) Steve Boxall 9+3 (6) Sam Masters (guest) 9 (6) Ben Morley (guest) 5+2 (5) Nelson 15+2 (7) Scunthorpe scorers: David Howe 15 (5 rides, maximum) Ben Wilson 4 (4) Thomas Jorgensen 5+1 (4) Richard Hall 10+1 (5 rides, inc 0 as a TR) Carl Wilkinson 2+1 (4) Michael Palm Toft 4 (4) Steve Worrall 3 (4) Match Points: Rye House 2 Scunthorpe 1
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