Sowka axed by Wolves speedway club

Wolves speedway team have axed struggling Polish rider Lukasz Sowka – and brought in a second double-up pair to replace him.

Czech rider Matej Kus and American Kenny Ingalls step in, with the former making his debut in Monday's home Elite League derby against Birmingham.

The axe had been widely expected for Sowka, who has failed to reproduce decent form in his homeland during his stay in Britain.

The 18-year-old signed off with four zeros in last night's 60-33 pummelling at Swindon – and was told of the club's decision shortly afterwards. Redcar's Kus, 22, impressed in a try-out at Monmore in last month's Gary Peterson Memorial meeting while 25-year-old Ingalls, who rides with Workington in the Premier League, has already made two guest appearances for the Parrys International Wolves this season.

Wolves already have one double-up pair on the books, Ricky Wells and Thomas Jorgensen sharing duties.

Club owner Chris Van Straaten said this afternoon: "We have replaced Lukasz with another pair of double-up riders.

"Making his debut on Monday will be Matej Kus. He is the one with the higher average, and will come in at 4.12 points.

"The back-up to him will be Kenny Ingalls. I say back-up, but we will be fair when we share the meetings out.

"Matej has been on our radar for some time, but his average has never fitted before.

"He's just what we need right now. He's a fast starter and very confident. A typical continental rider, really – if he gets out in front he is very, very fast."

Kus goes straight into the side at reserve and will partner recent signing Jacob Thorssell, who made a low-key debut on Monday.

"I was pleased to see Jacob get 5+2 in the top flight in Sweden on Tuesday," added Van Straaten.

"I think the occasion got to him on Monday."

On the injury front, broken thumb victim Pontus Aspgren expects to be available for the July 16 meeting with Lakeside.

Match report – Page 54