A TERRIFIC fightback by Swindon earned an away point at Lakeside in their opening Elite League fixture of the season.

Elite League

Lakeside Hammers 47

Swindon Robins 44

The Robins were 10 points behind after just five heats but pulled off three 5-1 victories in the last six races to turn a potential rout into a narrow and respectable loss (47-44).

Boss Alun Rossiter was delighted with a gritty display from his whole side to get their first points of the 2014 season on the board.

Said Rossiter: “I took all the positives out of that – for me that result was as good as a win given how tough a place Lakeside is to visit.

“With our first meeting of the season being cancelled yesterday this was the first time all the boys had ridden together and it took a while to get going.

“Up until Heat 10 we hadn’t won a race but everyone dug deep and we came strong in the end. We are certainly happy with that result and it’s a very encouraging way to start our season.”

Flying Dane Peter Kildemand top-scored for the visitors with a classy display from the No.1 position as he bagged three consecutive wins from his final three rides, while skipper Troy Batchelor also provided excellent support with a typically solid performance.

Third heat-leader Nick Morris also helped launch the Robins’ comeback and complete a strong top order, while returning Nicolai Klindt made a vital contribution from the No.2 position.

Despite an inconsistent evening, Swedish racer Simon Gustafsson completed a strong showing from the Swindon top five on his debut for the club, and Darryl Ritchings and Matt Williamson – guesting for first-round draft pick Steve Worrall – battled hard for their points in the lower order.

The Robins host their first home meeting of the season at the Abbey on Thursday (April 3).

Lakeside: Richard Lawson 9, Davey Watt 9, Mikkel Bech 9, Lewis Bridger 6+1, Ben Morley 6+1, Adam Ellis 6+1, Peter Karlsson 2.

Swindon: Peter Kildemand 13+1, Troy Batchelor 11+1, Nick Morris 6+2, Nicolai Klindt 5+2, Simon Gustafsson 4, Darryl Ritchings 3, Matt Williamson 2+2.