Wolverhampton Wolves cruise to win over Swindon

The Parrys International Wolves turned in a complete team performance to wrap up their regular season campaign in fine style and hit top form ahead of the all-important play-offs, writes Nigel Pearson.

Skipper Freddie Lindgren sensationally swooped around World Championship leader Jason Doyle to win the opening race.

And it set the tone for what was a stunning showing from Peter Adams’ side in a meeting many predict could be a preview of the play-off final.

Back to back 5-1s from the fast-starting hosts in heats two and three gave them an early advantage – and they were dealt a major lifeline when Doyle fell taking a Swindon tactical ride in heat five.

Jacob Thorssell brilliantly blasted around Adam Ellis on turn four of the rerun to move his side 12 clear, and although the visitors improved the home side always had the upper hand.

Super Sam Masters wonderfully squeezed around former Wolves man Tobiasz Musielak in heat seven as he starred early on in his second meeting back from an injury lay-off.

He was unfortunate to suffer bike problems when he battled with Doyle for third spot in the final race, but he nonetheless played his part with two excellent wins during their early dominance.

There was an anxious moment when Kyle Howarth shed a chain and was thrown from his bike in heat 10, but he walked away without any serious injuries after receiving treatment.

It was otherwise a dream evening for Wolves, for whom everyone except the unfortunate Howarth claimed at least a paid win.

Top four Lindgren, Thorssell, Masters and Rory Schlein were reliable as ever against a powerful Swindon side, and reserve duo Mark Riss and Nathan Greaves always had the edge against the Robins’ patched-up lower order.

Swindon will now get set to battle with fourth-placed Poole in the play-offs, whilst Wolverhampton face a rematch of last year’s Grand Final against Belle Vue in a bid to move one step closer to defending their crown.