Stoney and William contest the lead Image Credit: Ron McNeil

JUST AN 8-POINT SEMI FINAL LEAD

NEWS Friday 26th September 2008, 11:59pm

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

The Scotwaste Monarchs struggled for much of the night in their home leg of the KO Cup semi final, and only in the final three races did they push on to establish a lead.

Scores were level after heat 12, but two 4-2s and a surprise final heat 5-1 at least gave the Premier League winners something to defend at Derwent Park tomorrow.

There were a few problems in the home camp. Aaron Summers was not fit and toiled to score just a single point. William Lawson never got going all night, and Matthew Wethers had problems with both of his bikes and had to jump on Derek Sneddon's bike for several heats.

The track was too wet, which affected both sides, but in Monarchs' case Ryan Fisher (twice) and Andrew Tully took first bend tumbles.

Fisher however won four heats and the other successes were Andrew Tully (12+1) and ever-trying captain Derek Sneddon (3 wins in a 10-point score).

However it will be a tough night in Cumbria tomorrow if Monarchs are to make the final.