In the same week that Tigers have announced the capture of emerging Dane Anders Thomsen – who will make his British speedway and Tigers debut at Somerset on Friday – the club has been dealt an injury blow which rules out the skipper from travelling to face the Rebels and the Rockets this weekend.
Unfortunately Joe has aggravated his recent broken finger injury when we visited Edinburgh last Friday night, and has been forced to withdraw from racing for at least the next week.
Tigers have moved to cover Joe’s absence by securing a guest facility, with Berwick’s Kozza Smith coming in to the side at Somerset, whilst Leicester’s Kevin Doolan will don the Tigers race jacket at Rye House – our thanks to both riders for assisting us.
No doubt the main interest for Tigers fans will be in the debut performances of Anders who will enter the British speedway fray against two tough sides and on two very different circuits, as well as having to get to know his new team mates. Certainly his recent performance, in esteemed company, for the Danish U21s at Opole, Poland suggests that he is well capable of making the adjustment to Britain and eventually bringing some much needed scoring power to the Tigers.
With no meeting in a week, the Tigers side will be well rested ahead of the trip South, the break having helped Joe Jacobs in particular to overcome the effects of his recent crash whilst racing for Coventry on the Isle of Wight.
Team manager Sean Courtney will be hoping for a continuation of improved form by several of his riders, and that the trip can provide the club with much better away performances than we’ve enjoyed in recent months – certainly the team will target a much better return at Rye House than was achieved in our KOC exit.
Whilst the team will be racing down south on Saturday night, and with some warm, sunny weather forecast, Tigers fans can enjoy a fun day at the stadium (from 2pm) which will entail face painting, bouncy castle, water slide (bring suitable clothing and towels!), home baking, ice creams and more. We will also have a BBQ/burgers and soft drinks (each only £1). Afterwards supporters can stay on and watch the World Cup Final from Prague in the bar amongst fellow fans. A small £2 entry fee is applicable to cover the cost of a finger buffet, and there will be a tombola and raffle (prize donations accepted on the night).
Hope to see many of you on Saturday.