NEW SIGNING FOR MONARCHS

NEWS Thursday 27th April 2006, 9:04am

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

Edinburgh Scotwaste Monarchs have signed 18 year old John Oliver from Boston, and the new man will make his debut for the team on Friday in the match against Newcastle at Armadale.

John takes the place of Sean Stoddart who will move in the opposite direction and line up for Boston in the Conference League, also starting on Friday.

John Oliver is in his third UK season and achieved his best result early this month when he won the Lincs FM Trophy at Scunthorpe with a 13-point score, heading some of the top Conference League riders.

Speaking from trackside at King's Lynn on Wednesday night where he was watching their meeting, John said:

?I've ridden Armadale before and I remember it was little, tight, skilful and all right. I won a meeting at Scunthorpe this year and that is tight too.

?I think I can do well ? I can only do my best. I'm young and still have plenty of years to learn. I hope I can do a good job for Edinburgh ? they have given me the chance so I want to do well for them.

?My dad has been here with me but he leaves next Friday, so it will be just me on my own! The travelling doesn't worry me ? driving the whole length of the country doesn't even get you out of the State back home! For the Australian Under-21 Championships I drove 22 hours there and 22 hours back.

?I know Matthew Wethers so I am just about to ring him to ask if I can stay at his house! I don't know any of the other Monarchs but it won't take me long.

?I start with three matches in three days, and that's fine for me ? I do the sport because I love it and I'll race as much as I can. I can't wait, bring it on!?

Sean Stoddart remains in Monarchs' future plans but it is felt that he will benefit from gaining confidence riding in the Conference League and improving his gating, which has held him back during his time in the team this year