speedway By John Walsh

Last updated 12:51, Thursday, 24 July 2008

Workington Comets must put all thoughts of the prestigious Fours behind them when they look for league points tonight.

The Comets visit Redcar Bears looking for a quick double over the north-east side – but wary about the opposition.

Back on July 5 Workington just managed to beat the Gary Havelock-inspired Bears 46-44 at Derwent Park after the Comets had appeared to be well clear with only five heats left.

Team manager Ian Thomas said: “That was too close for comfort, especially when we appeared to have the match well won after ten heats.”

Owner Keith Denham added: “Havelock was outstanding that night for the Bears and it took a brilliant 5-1 in the last by Kauko and Stoney to keep him out and earn us the win.

“We are not expecting an easy ride at the South Tees Motorsport Park but it should be a match we have targeted for a win.”

American Chris Kerr has returned to the side after months of absence and given instant points support to Bears heat leader trio of Gary Havelock, James

Grieves and Ty Proctor whilst teenager Josh Auty has also been returning heat wins as his contribution.

Redcar are leaving the number six spot open as James Cockle has been suffering a transport problem and Benji Compton, a motor problem. Compton did ride last night at Birmingham when the Bears went down 46-45 in a grandstand finish, reminiscent of their match at Derwent Park.

Compton scored six points and is likely to be riding against the Comets tonight. Havelock top-scored for the Bears on 12 points while fellow heat leaders James Grieves had ten.

REDCAR'TLS' BEARS

1. Gary Havelock (C), 2. Josh Auty, 3. James Grieves, 4. Chris Kerr, 5. Ty Proctor, 6. Benji Compton 7. Arlo Bugeja

WORKINGTON COMETS

1. Daniel Nermark, 2. Rider replacement for Tomi Reima, 3. Kauko Nieminen (C), 4. Joe Haines, 5. Carl Stonehewer, 6. Charles Wright, 7. John Branney