Gladiators ready for visit of Poole in vital derby

PLYMOUTH Gladiators’ rider Joe Thompson has boldly claimed ‘we've conquered them twice and we'll do it again” ahead of tonight's derby clash with Championshipleaders Poole Pirates at the Coliseum (tapes up 7pm).

- STUART JAMES [e-mail]

With the Gladiators welcoming the septet that beat them by just six points at Wimborne Road in midweek, Thompson has praised the team’s recent efforts and called on supporters to help make the Coliseum a fortress once again.

Fresh from that determined away display, where the Gladiators passed the 40-point mark, confidence is running high. And with two home victories already secured over the Pirates this season, the Gladiators are aiming to make it a ‘three-peat’ in front of what's expected to be another passionate home crowd.

“We've conquered them twice and we'll do it again,’ said Thompson. “The support at the Coliseum makes all the difference. The crowd was sensational last week and really pushed us to pick up all three league points. We want to see that again and more this Saturday”

Following an injury to recent signing Arran Butcher, which will keep him out for the remainder of the season, the Gladiators have recruited Tom Spencer as one of their two reserves.