It was a difficult night for the Kent Royals at the National Speedway Stadium, as Belle Vue Colts ran out 67-23 winners and claim the all-important aggregate bonus point, as the Colts look to break into the top two and get into the end of season Play Off shootout.

It was a dominant performance from the hosts who provided all fifteen of the heat winners and took heat advantages on all but two occasions.

But one bizarre quirk for statistics buffs is that all fifteen heats were won by the rider in red, which has only happened on one previous occasion in recent years, and that was at Central Park in 2017 when the then Kent Kings beat Buxton 61-29.

For The Royals it was guest Jacob Hook who did the most to limit damage with 9 points from his five rides which featured four second places and number one Ben Morley who added 6+1 with two second places, but overall, it was a disappointing night for the visitors.

The hosts saw Sam Hagon complete a full maximum from his four rides and Jack Smith complete a paid maximum from his five rides. James Pearson was on for a full maximum from his five rides but suffered an engine failure on the last bend of heat 15.

Speaking after the match, Kent team manager Jamie Willis said. “Belle Vue were far superior on home shale and credit where it is due. Although we are obviously disappointed, the lads gave it their best they really did. Each race was won by the completion of the first lap, and we just couldn’t find the set up to get us out of the gate as fast as the Belle Vue riders.” 

There was also thanks for the fans that travelled to Manchester and those that supported from home. “A massive thank you to those trackside and at home supporting us. The positive words from those in attendance showed that the boys did give it their best.” 

Next up for Kent is a home fixture against the Leicester Lion Cubs on Sunday 23rd July with a midday start, before an away fixture at Oxford on the Wednesday 26th July.