Coventry Devlins Newsagents Cycle Speedway club prevailed, just, in a closely fought encounter at Hearsall Common on Sunday afternoon as they claimed two further Midland League points.
Led by the powerhouse Australian signing Bobby McMillan, Coventry quickly opened up a 10 point lead with three 7-3’s in the opening four heats – only ex World Cycle Speedway Champion Dave Hemsley could take the flag for the visitors in the early stages.
A crucial win for Craig Marchant over Myke Grimes in heat 8 ensured Leicester were still in contention at the half way stage as they trailed Coventry by just eight points.
Heat 11 proved to be a crucial turning point in the meeting as Hemsley & Venson provided Leicester with a 7-3 to bring the Monarchs within four points of the home side. Myke Grimes ran a last as he was forcefully taken wide by Hemsley who proved no slouch on his racing comeback.
Coventry again turned to Bobby McMillan for crucial support as himself and Mason Phillips teamed up for a second 7-3 to provide Coventry with some breathing room. An impressive second place from Midland League Div 1 debut man Matt Hambridge in the following race steadied Coventry’s gradual recovery.
Four shared heats in the concluding five races ensured Coventry secured victory with Bobby McMillan completing his paid maximum.
A special mention must go to Steve Ingram who made only his third appearance on a Cycle Speedway bike. Ingram, a road racer by trade, has proved himself to be a quick learner in the sport and managed 5 points from his three rides, including an impressive second place in his opening ride.