Edinburgh have lost out for the moment at least in their surprise bid to sign Rob Grant Junior. Rob is the hottest property currently available in the Conference League.
Rob, who has ridden for Lightning in the Conference over the past year, turned 16 on Saturday 9th June and became eligible to ride in the Premier League. Rob's father Rob Grant Senior was a legendary rider with Berwick.
Monarchs were always sure to face competition for Grant's signature. Newcastle had been considered favourites as he has long been associated as a junior. Newcastle have been looking for a reserve since Jamie Smith was forced out in the reshuffle that brought back André Compton. Berwick were also desperately looking for a reserve to partner Dean Felton and have family connections with Grant.
Monarchs also have links with Rob Grant via his Conference League association with Lightning. Monarchs supremo John Campbell is also promoter of Lightning. Rob has been a mainstay of the Lightning side since he turned 15 one year ago. He has also appeared for the Dale Devils last season.
John Campbell, who remained confident of beating off the competition to sign Grant, recollected memories of Rob Grant Senior. Grant was never forgotten for his part in the crash that broke the leg and ended the career of Monarchs' former World Finalist Doug Wyer:
"Edinburgh supporters hated Rob for the crash involving Doug. And even after all this time, I'm not convinced they've ever fully forgiven him. Despite that he's a really nice bloke. We got on well during our discussions about signing his son."
In the final outcome, Rob Grant agreed to ride five matches Newcastle without signing and made his debut at reserve at Stoke on Saturday in the Premier League Cup. The decision to go for five matches means that Rob's 3.00 average will be protected and he will be able to see how things work out and keep all options open.
Edinburgh confirmed that they have not given up hope of signing Rob. A spokesman commented:
"Newcastle agreed to give Rob some matches without actually signing him. Our bid to offer him a contract is far from over."