Wolves suffer an Elite League defeat at Swindon
Table-topping Wolves were brought back down to earth with a bang with a 54-38 Elite League defeat at Swindon.
Three Robins 5-1s in the opening three races set the tone for what was a disappointing night for Wolves, just 24 hours after they fought so hard for an unlikely point at Poole.
The reigning Elite League champions last night put in a powerful performance to prevent Wolves from taking a point on the road for only the second time this season.
Their sluggish start put them 12 down and right on the back foot almost immediately, before guesting Scott Nicholls failed to make any impact with his attempt at double points in heat five.
Still trailing by 12, Wolves opted for their second tactical ride in heat eight as Adam Skornicki aimed to catapult his side back into contention.
But the race arguably proved a turning point as Swindon man Nick Morris picked off both Ludvig Lindgren and Skornicki to turn a potential 8-1 into a 5-3 which had minimal impact.
From that point on the chances of a point were always slim and an inspired Peter Kildemand ensured Wolves would never be given a passage back into the meeting as he stormed to a maximum for the home side.
There were positives to take for Wolves – most notably the performances of Swedish reserve duo Ludvig Lindgren and Jacob Thorssell.
Lindgren enjoyed a superb night down at reserve, ending with 6+4 to earn a well-deserved heat 15 appearance.
Swedish compatriot Thorssell also notably improved as the evening wore on, taking an impressive heat 14 victory having bravely rounded Ashley Birks on the opening lap.
The victory was one of only three all evening for the visitors, with Tai Woffinden providing the other race wins as he put in a strong performance at No 5.
Swindon: Peter Kildemand 15, Troy Batchelor 11+1, Jason Doyle 8+1, Ashley Birks 8, Nick Morris 6+1, Edward Kennett 4+2, Kyle Howarth 2+1
Wolves: Tai Woffinden 12, Adam Skornicki 9+1, Ludvig Lindgren 6+4, Jacob Thorssell 5+1, Ricky Wells 4, Scott Nicholls 2, Ty Proctor R-R
By Rich Jones