Both club skipper Gary Havelock and free-scoring James Grieves have amazed their medical advisers by their performances in the 48-42 victory over Workington last Thursday evening at the South Tees Motorsport Park.
Havelock was concerned about his lack of energy in recent weeks which had reflected in a dip in his scores. A blood test revealed the rare medical condition of an under-active thyroid gland and his doctor was amazed that the former World Champion could even raise himself from his bed never mind race a motorcycle alongside three other speedway riders in five heats of action! Gary is gradually being introduced to new medication and a top-scoring 12 point return against the Cumbrian visitors indicated he is on the way back to his best as his team face the Glasgow Tigers in Premier League action this Thursday evening at the Motorpark at 7.30pm.
James suffered a major pile up at Monmore Green, Wolverhampton on the previous Monday evening representing the Wolves against Coventry in Elite League action. He suffered muscle damage to his back and a knee and was given the option not to ride on Teesside on the Thursday evening. The Scot made a late decision to give it a go and his 11 point return was a major factor in keeping the Bears' ahead in a tough match.
Both will continue to receive medical treatment as they anticipate another tense tussle with a Glasgow side which is still aiming for a play-off place and has targetted this fixture for a vital two points. The Bears' management meanwhile wants to keep on course for participation in the end-of-season Young Shield competition and with this being the final home Premier League match of the season there is an added dimension of seeking to finish the current campaign on a high note.
Glasgow are spearheaded by top Australian riders Shane Parker and Craig Watson who reached the final race of the Premier League Pairs Championship before being pipped by the Isle of Wight duo for the title.
REDCAR BEARS:
1. Gary Havelock (C)
2. Josh Auty
3. James Grieves
4. Chris Kerr
5. Mathieu Tresarrieu
6. Daniel Giffard
7. Jack Hargreaves
GLASGOW TIGERS:
1. Craig Watson
2. David McAllan
3. Shane Parker (C)
4. Robert Ksiezak
5. Trent Leverington
6. Michael Coles
7. Lee Dicken
The Bears have two away league matches this week. At the Smallbrook Stadium, Ryde, Isle of Wight on Tuesday evening against the Isle of Wight Islanders and at the Oak Tree Arena, Highbridge, Somerset on Friday evening against the Somerset Rebels. Full details available on the club hotline 09068 664 665 after each match.
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