Kent Royals manager Jamie Willis describes losing run as totally unacceptable
Published: 05:00, 12 May 2023
Kent Royals’ losing run hit five matches in all competitions as their difficult start to the speedway season continued.
Manager Jamie Willis described the situation as “totally unacceptable” and said he and promoter Si Kellow would be looking at potential changes.
The Royals lost 52-37 at Edinburgh Monarchs Academy on Friday and 43-23 to Berwick Bullets the following night, leaving them winless in the National Development League.
Number one rider Ben Morley top-scored with 10 points against Edinburgh, captain Tom Woolley added nine and Connor King chipped in with eight, while there was also a race win for Rhys Naylor.
“It was a frustrating night in which things didn’t quite go our way,” said Willis.
“Once again, individuals impressed but, as a team unit, we fell short.”
“The Berwick meeting was abandoned after 11 heats as fog moved in but the result stands.
Kent started well, with Morley and Naylor securing a 5-1 in the opening heat.
But that was as good as it got for the six-man visitors, who were missing Joe Alcock following a couple of falls at Edinburgh.
Willis said: “I’m frustrated, very frustrated.
“Berwick were dialled in from the get-go and we couldn’t match them for speed or gating.
“Something needs to change, whether that’s the riders, riding order or our pre-meeting preparation.
“It’s going to be a busy couple of days for Si and me as we look to find the right formula.
“We can only apologise to all those supporting us at trackside or at home and we will do all we can to turn around our performances.”
Kent are back at home for the first time since Easter when they meet Berwick in the return league meeting at the Old Gun Site in Iwade this Sunday (midday).
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KentOnline reporter