coldace

I'm beginning to wonder whether we have lost our direction a bit with the Colts. I attended yesterday but became quite disillusioned and left before the end, something I've only done previously because of other commitments. I'd say that yesterday's meeting was the worst I have seen since the move to the NSS. So much went wrong and, whilst most wasn't deliberately intended, something doesn't feel right. I have always enjoyed the Colts and attended as much as I can. But we seem to be switching the focus away from giving the young guys a chance and relying on older riders who frankly are not going to progress. Nothing personal, but I'd say using Marson and Muff isn't what this league is about. My view is that we should be using younger riders looking for a chance to shine, we saw a few in the Leicester team. Maybe this is one of the reasons the attendance was so poor for a Bank Holiday meeting? I, like many others, will never forget the first match at the NSS and the home debut of Dan Bewley. I'm sure that experience has made watching him progress even more enjoyable. And, in subsequent years, there were more young riders to follow like Sam McGurk recently, not all made it but following them was interesting. Indeed, watching Freddy Hodder progress has been great. I may be wrong but I seem to remember two years ago he had his first race win when Harry McGurk shepherd him home. Yesterday Harry looked a very different rider and I wonder whether he can get back to the form he showed then. He doesn't look comfortable on the bike. I know not all will agree but this is not meant to be negative, it's just an observation you may well disagree. .

Was in Oxford recently and the story is that he will sign for them. They will ride on Thursday and he will be much nearer the London airports making travelling to the GPS much easier. This has happened before where northern-based riders move south for ease of travel. Just hope that if it happens we can use Fricke.

I would really hope so. think his size, style and speed is so suited to out track. I notice Tungate is looking for a spot, probably too high an average but I'd love to see him back. I'm sure we will be competitive next year although disappointed that Tom isn't included.

Maybe a couple of years ago but not now I'm afraid. Seems too many injuries have slowed him down.

Agree about Norick, can't be fit and has been a bit off the boil of late. I'd try to get Ben Cook in, good gater, fast and has a smooth style that suits the NSS. I'd be looking at him for next year. In my opinion he's in the Tungate, Bjerre and Lydsey mould so likely to score well.

What was Shovler saying about Tom?

Ellis is rank, couldn't take advantage of others mistakes. Brennan should replace him

Ellis should be dropped from the next match

Ellis is outclassed. Put Brennan in

Give Brennan ride

Not one of his best tracks? Look at his record in the Peter Craven Meetings. I think he will do better than you think.

Going to have to win the toss for once and take 1 and 3.

Not who I had expected however is in good form for Scunthorpe and can be quick around the NSS.

You'll probably get Danny King, not sure he qualifies.

I'm referring to the first running of the PC under the present promotion, forgive me.

At the NSS it's the quality of the racing rather than the quality of the field that we go for. Many remember the first Craven meeting when the lineup looked decidedly ordinary but the racing was brilliant.

Happy Birthday Dave. Went on many trips with Dave and a few others in the first few years of the British League. Remember one in particular to Edinburgh and Newcastle in 1966. Loved those years going to places like Cradley, Long Eaton and Halifax which all seemed so different for lads from Cowley.

Not sure they are expected to pay at the NSS. As far as I know they merely have to call up before hand to receive free entry. Some of the ex BV riders are regularly seen at matches, especially Eric Broadbelt. I really enjoyed the PC book especially the early bits about him getting started but he clearly is very down on the people who brought us the best track and stadium in the country which is a pity.

Think it might be a bit early for Jake Mulford. Maybe Connor Bailey would be a better choice.

Not sure that the Cup has any value at all these days.

That sounds pretty good to me. Would expect big improvements from the bottom three, especially Lidsey. So what sized league are we to expect? Just hope it's at least eight. Is Oxford expected to come up?

I think that this is right and possibly, over the past few seasons, there has been maybe too much security of place with us. If there is a more appropriate rider lined up for the league matches, as has been suggested, then it's better that pressure is on both Allen and Etheridge for the remaining place. Rather than Jake Allen knowing that he only has four weeks and then he will be replaced come what may. Maybe we are becoming more like Poole!

Well he was certainly very fast and impressive at the SoN last year. I think he could be a very good signing although I doubt he will get around Wolves so well. In fact we will struggle at Wolves next year as Kurtz and Fricke don't appear fans of the tight bends there either.

Rules out Bjerre and Tungate either I'd have welcomed. This new guy will have to be a bit special if he makes 3rd heat leader so soon if starting at number 4. Wonder whether familiar face is Etheridge? Good at reserve but risky at number 2. So, whoever and whatever I'm looking forward to the season and it's the quality of the racing that is the priority for me.

Well he is not a familiar face or, in my opinion, an exciting edition. So it's probably a no.