Express & Star

Piotr Pawlicki sets the pace as Wolves power to victory

Piotr Pawlicki struck a stunning maximum to lead Wolverhampton to a memorable 47-43 victory over old rivals Coventry in a scintillating clash at Monmore Green.

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After two heavy downpours less than an hour before the meeting was set to get underway, the track staff performed heroics to ensure a mouth-watering Midlands derby went ahead.

Supporters were duly treated to yet another night of exciting action, with Polish hotshot Pawlicki ensuring Wolves preserved their unbeaten home record.

The Monmore men were again required to stage a late surge to see off a strong Bees side, with the earlier rain causing the home side problems in the early stages.

It was the flying Pawlicki who provided the catalyst needed to spark their last-gasp charge for victory.

Having missed the gate in heat 11, Pawlicki blasted around the previously unbeaten Hans Andersen before hunting down former Wolf Kenneth Hansen, performing a perfectly timed cutback to snatch victory on the line.

Although it worked to only keep Wolves level, it provided a timely confidence boost entering the closing stages before in-form Swede Jacob Thorssell squeezed between Bees men Jason Garrity and James Sarjeant to spectacularly put them ahead in the very next race.

Pawlicki then duly completed an unforgettable night for himself with two textbook starts in heats 13 and 15 to wrap up a vital victory.

Swedish talent Thorssell provided able back-up with a tremendous performance, racing to three race wins in classy style.

Skipper Tai Woffinden was also good value for his 6+3 point haul, being involved in some close racing as he made a vital contribution.

Having battled his way past Kyle Howarth in heat one, the world champion was involved in two of Wolves' three maximums before seeing off Hans Andersen for third place in heat 13 to provide a crucial heat advantage.

And despite making a costly mistake in the final race, it was another strong showing from Woffinden on what was a tough night.

Ricky Wells, Ty Proctor and Joe Jacobs all picked up some vital points to bolster the lower order. Ashley Morris did endure a forgettable night at reserve as he struggled with track conditions, yet his side still emerged victorious following a resilient effort.

WOLVES: Piotr Pawlicki 15, Jacob Thorssell 11, Tai Woffinden 6+3, Ty Proctor 6, Joe Jacobs 5+1, Ricky Wells 4+2, Ashley Morris 0.

COVENTRY: Kenneth Hansen 9+1, Jason Garrity 9, Chris Harris 7+2, Hans Andersen 7+1, James Sarjeant 7+1, Ryan Fisher 3, Kyle Howarth 1.

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