By Isle of Wight Observer
Despite a valiant effort, the injury-hit Warriors fell to a 39–51 defeat against a spirited Thurrock Hammers’ side, at Smallbrook Stadium on Tuesday night, marking the final home fixture of the 2025 season.
Already missing Ben Morley and Arran Butcher, the Warriors’ woes deepened as Harley Freeman and Henning Loof suffered mid-meeting injuries, leaving just two fit riders – Darryl Ritchings and Charlie Southwick – to carry the team. The duo delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring 33 of the team’s 39 points.
Ritchings was electric from the outset, winning multiple heats and finishing with 20 out of a possible 21 points. Southwick also impressed, battling fiercely and securing key wins, including a 5-1 alongside Ritchings in heat 12.
Teen sensation, Cooper Rushen, stole the show for the visitors, showcasing his growing mastery of the Smallbrook track with several stand-out victories. Thurrock’s consistency and depth ultimately proved decisive, especially as the Warriors were forced to field solo riders in the final heats.
Promoter, Barry Bishop, praised the season’s energy and resilience: “It’s been another fun-packed year on the Island. The rain may have taken one meeting, but the spirit of speedway shone through,” he said.
