Sky Sports Elite League

Swindon Robins 46

Eastbourne 44

SWINDON performed last-heat heroics to snatch a 46-44 victory over Eastbourne at the Abbey on Thursday.

A faultless maximum from brilliant Dane Peter Kildemand led the Robins to victory, as he joined forces with the equally impressive Troy Batchelor in nervy Heat 15 decider to ensure the side edged a narrow win.

Despite the Robins racing into a six-point lead in the early stages, the determined Eagles fought back to leave the meeting hanging in the balance – yet Swindon displayed excellent character to ensure they bounced back to winning ways in dramatic circumstances.

Having seen his side suffer home defeats against Coventry and Poole in recent weeks, team boss Alun Rossiter was thrilled to taste victory once again.

Rossiter said: "I was just happy to come away with the win in the end given the circumstances.

"Dak (North) was obviously making his debut but he showed plenty of fight and showed what he could do in his last ride.

"Peter (Kildemand) and Troy (Batchelor) were absolutely outstanding and pulled it out the bag when it mattered for us in Heat 15.

"Peter, in particular, showed just how far he's come in the last few years; he was absolutely top class again."

While Kildemand and Batchelor undoubtedly stole the show with magnificent displays, fellow heat-leader Nick Morris also stepped up with a crucial performance.

Dakota North, having come into the side this week as full-time replacement for Nicolai Klindt, ended his debut with an encouraging race win in his final ride – while there was a solid contribution from Steve Worrall at reserve which ensured the Robins edged victory despite difficult evenings for Simon Gustafsson and Dan Greenwood.

Swindon will be back in action on Friday night as they face a tough trip to Lakeside looking to record their second consecutive win.

SWINDON: Peter Kildemand 15, Troy Batchelor 11+3, Nick Morris 8+2, Dakota North 5, Steve Worrall 5, Simon Gustafsson 2, Dan Greenwood 0

EASTBOURNE: Lewis Blackbird 11+3, Mikkel Michelsen 11, Timo Lahti 6, Joonas Kylmakorpi 6, Cameron Woodward 4+1, Bjarne Pedersen 3+1, Daniel Halsey 3

PATCHED up Swindon will look to add to their Elite League points tally as they face a tough trip to Lakeside tonight (Friday).

With Aussie racer Troy Batchelor attending practice for this weekend's European Grand Prix, the Robins call on the services of Eastbourne man Bjarne Pedersen as a guest.

Benji Compton also steps in at reserve for Steve Worrall, who is on Premier League duty with Edinburgh.

Despite two key absences, team boss Alun Rossiter believes his side are capable of a strong performance as they look to notch their second consecutive win after snatching a last gasp win against Eastbourne on Thursday.

Said Rossiter: "Lakeside is always a tough place to go, and being without Troy isn't ideal as he usually goes well around there.

"It's going to be difficult but hopefully Bjarne can prove a good guest, and everyone can step up so that we can come away with at least a point."