Plymouth eye maximum haul to get into play-offs

PLYMOUTH Gladiators team manager Garry May believes his side can keep their late-season charge for a playoff place ahead of a crucial doubleheader against Redcar Bears this weekend.

- SAM WHITFIELD

Fresh from a stunning and action-packed 47-43 home victory over Poole Pirates last Saturday, Plymouth’s third win over the Dorset outfit this season, the team are closing in on a top four place - and points this weekend will further boost their chances of making the top four.

‘The win against Poole came in dramatic fashion, with the Gladiators sealing victory with back-to-back 5-Is in the final two heats, despite a string of setbacks.

“We had a bit of bad luck losing Lasse (Fredriksen), then Scott Nicholls had engine problems, and Alfie (Bowtell’s) bike wasn’t working until he switched it mid-meeting,’ May said. “But the riders were tremendous, they just wanted it. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd were fantastic.”

May credited a vital halftime team talk for turning the tide, adding: “We still felt we could do it. The lads dug in, gated well, and we ended up winning it almost with a two-man team. But that’s the character in this side, they never give up.”

‘The focus now turns to back-to-back clashes with Redcar Bears with the first meeting away last night before the return fixture at The Coliseum this evening.