Ford believes Poole Pirates can take heart from dramatic super-heat defeat

Danny Ford insisted Poole Pirates could “take some heart” from their super-heat loss at Oxford Cheetahs on Wednesday.

The Poole promoter was speaking after a thrilling contest at Oxford Stadium had finished 45-45 between his side and the Cheetahs after 15 heats.

That left Tom Brennan and Richard Lawson the task of representing Poole in the super-heat to decide the outcome of the meeting.

And in a re-run finale, Oxford duo Sam Masters and Scott Nicholls recorded a one-two to earn their side victory.

?? FINAL SCORE | OXFORD 45 (7) - (2) 45 POOLE

?? Nothing to separate the 2 sides after 15 heats but the superheat goes the way of the Cheetahs

??‍?? #PiratePride pic.twitter.com/ZSgR2AYDdB

— Poole Pirates Speedway (@poolespeedway) June 19, 2024

Ford told the club website: "Naturally we are disappointed with the final result, but however, on reflection, I think we can take some heart in the fact that we pushed Oxford so hard on their own turf.

“I have already said before how strong they are, particularly at home, and I think come the end of the season they will certainly be up there in the play-off positions.

“Everyone in attendance was treated to a fantastic back and forth fixture which is always what we want as a sport, tough tight contests, and that is certainly what we got.

“I think we have put ourselves in a decent position for the return fixture at Wimborne Road and the aggregate bonus point."

Without Tobias Thomsen due to a foot injury, Poole tracked Joe Thompson as a guest in his place.

But with him struggling on the night, Sam Hagon was given an extra ride and finished the evening with an impressive 12-point haul.

Lawson (11) and Brennan (9+1) also made key contributions, as the solitary league point proved enough to send Pirates top of the SGB Championship table.