Monarchs entertain their old rivals Berwick Bandits at Armadale this week. While, on paper, it looks a straightforward task to win, the border team should not be underestimated despite current poor form. They have the best record of any team against Edinburgh over the years.
Berwick were rated as one of the strongest teams in the Premier League at the start of the season but it has not really happened for them so far. They started off very strong at home but weak away. They have still to win an away match and their long unbeaten home run has been ended with successive home defeats by Stoke, Swindon and Exeter.
They have been beset by injury problems affecting Scott Lamb and Scott Smith. Sith is now back in the team but Lamb has been ruled out fr the season and replaced by the German Jorg Pingel. Berwick have also been afflicted by problems at reserve. They started with Freddie Stephenson and Steven McAllister. Stephenson went well but was sacrificed to bring back Dean Felton. McAllister was eventually replaced by Wesley Waite. Unfortunately, Wesley has been unable to recapture his previous Shielfield form. He is now out for the season after breaking an ankle while riding for Buxton in the Conference. The inability of Paul Bentley and Scott Smith to ride to their full potential are other reasons why Berwick have underperformed this season.
Berwick are now well out of contention for a play-off place but will be keen to break their away duck and to at least collect the bonus point. Berwick have a 15-point lead from the home leg. Edinburgh won the Premier National Trophy against 50 points to 40 at Armadale after being made to work hard throughout.
TEAMS FOR THE PREMIER LEAGUE MATCH AT ARMADALE on Friday 8th September (start time 7.30 pm, gates open 6.30 pm) are:
EDINBURGH FORTH AM MONARCHS: Robert Eriksson, Blair Scott, Peter Carr (capt.), Ross Brady, Kevin Little, Will Beveridge, Christian Henry.
BERWICK ACC CELLNET BANDITS: Paul Bentley, Jorg Pingel, David Meldrum, Scott Smith, Alan Mogridge, Dean Felton, A N Other.
It is uncertain if Jorg Pingel will be riding due to German League committments. He remains in the team at this stage but may have to be replaced by a junior. Also it it not known who will ride at number 7 in place of Wesley although Chris Schramm's name has been mentioned.
The official opening of the George Hunter Memorial Lounge at Armadale will take place tomorrow. The Monarchs' Promotion are pleased to report that Mrs Barbara Hunter, wife of Monarchs' highest ever points scorer George, and her daughter Natalie will attend Friday's meeting in order to perform the official opening of the lounge.
For the second time this season, Keyline Building Materials (Broxburn) are sponsors of a meeting and will watch from the George Hunter Memorial Lounge with their guests.