BRAVE riders from Astley & Tyldesley Cycle Speedway lost out in a dramatic struggle at Sandwell in the British Team Championship.
A&T, still smarting from having lost the 1999 Midlands/North Division Two title to Sandwell in controversial circumstances, were always in with a shout this time.
But they were unable to draw level, despite providing 11 of the 18 race winners.
Damien Hack was the match's top scorer, a remarkable achievement for a 14-year-old in a senior match; he won four races and was second in his other race.
Martin Phillips was also in great form, and there was an encouraging return from Gavin Creaney, riding his first match for five years.
Sandwell edged this first round encounter 93-87.
Scorers: Damien Hack 19, Martin Phillips 16, Gavin Creaney 15, Mike Hack 12 (1 bonus), Russell Holland 11 (2), Robert Black 7, Lee Harper 6, Bill Phillips 1.
A&T begin their Midlands/North League Division Two campaign with a home match against Sandwell on Sunday (2pm).
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