Speedway – Monarchs secure win double

Erik Riss played a key roll in Friday’s double-header against Workington Comets and Ipswich Witches. Picture by Jack Cupido

SGB Championship: Edinburgh Monarchs 48, Ipswich Witches 44; Edinburgh Monarchs 52, Workington Comets 40.

Edinburgh Monarchs wrapped up six points as they bid to secure a place in the end-of-season Championship play-offs.

They edged high-flying Ipswich Witches 48-44 after seeing off lowly Workington Comets 52-40.

Monarchs looked to be coasting to victory over the Suffolk side when they led 35-24 after ten races.

But the English combine won Heat 11 6-3 after a tactical ride from Danny King to close the gap to 38-30.

And back-to-back 4-2 scorelines in Heat 13 and 14 saw the lead shrink to 45-41.

But Ricky Wells took second place behind former Monarchs favourite Rory Schlein in the final race with Monarchs team-mate Erik Riss third for a 48-44 win.

Earlier, former Monarchs skipper Craig Cook powered to 14 points for Workington Comets.

But none of his team-mates made double figures and Monarchs took full advantage.

Erik Riss top scored with 14 for the home side with Ricky Wells next best on ten points with skipper Sam Masters, making his comeback after injury, collecting eight points.