Fortress Spytty

Newport Exiles impressive home record continued as they won two home games in the last fortnight in League and Divisional Cup.

It started with a comfortable 51-39 league win over Keswick Crusaders, with high class performances from Lars Elmander (12+1), Ben Tullett (9+1) and reserve Oksana Chaplinski (7+2).

Then, the same three were the lynch-pins in securing a Division Three Cup against Glenholt Knights. In an excellent and exciting contest that went down to heat 15, Chaplinski scored 5 paid eight, while Elmander (12) and Tullett (11) ensured a 3-3 in the final heat to get the Exiles over the line for a 46-44 victory.

Former World number two Tullett continued his form as he comfortably made his way into the British Final with the 12 point performance in the Semi-Final at Brickhill. Meanwhile, Tullett and Elmander were the only two to come out of the away league game at Brockmoor with any credit as the scored 20 of the Exiles 31 points in a 59-31 defeat.

However, they couldn't continue that form into the Pairs Championship Semi-Final as they were outclassed at Wimbledon, finishing last with 11 points.

Elsewhere, in academy news. the Exiles lost 47-25 and 51-18 to the Leeds Jaguars. However, Ross Halsey continued his personal impressive start to the season with 10 points from four rides at home and 6 points from three completed rides away to put himself in the frame for the first team spot.

Apprentice Oliver Steele also impressed in the opening round of the Champions Apprentice, scoring nine points at Gorleston to put him just three off the lead. Fellow Welshman, Daniel Pennington, also impressed, being just a point behind Steele.