The flurry of fixtures over the Easter weekend has resulted in the qualification groups for the Premier National Trophy starting to take some shape.
In the Northern Group, Edinburgh's position at the top has suffered following two successive defeats by Newcastle. Workington have copleted four matches over the weekend, two at home and two away, winning the lot. This has taken the Comets into a commanding position at the top of the group with 17 points. This follows a similar pattern to last year. Unfortunately for Workington, the injury crisis that wrecked their Premier League hop last year seem to be happening again. Second string Barry Campbell has suffered a bad crash and looks like being out for a sustained period. This injury has not hampered Workington's progress as they are able to use rider replacement with high scoring reserve Rusty Harrison available to take extra rides. However when the new averages come out and Harrison moves out of reserve, Workington could be in trouble especially if Barry drops to reserve and they are forced to use Conference League riders. aving said that it is hard to see Workington not qualifying given the commanding position they have established.
Below Workington there are four teams on nine points (Sheffield, Newcaste, Edinburgh and Glasgow) and three on zero points (Hull, Stoke, and Berwick). It would appear that Stoke, Berwick and possibly Hull are out of contention. That leaves Sheffield, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and possibly Glasgow going for the second qualification place. Edinburgh have two away wins but one home defeat. Sheffield and Newcastle have one away win and are unbeaten at home. Glasgow have failed to win away but are level with the others after completing one more home match.
Edinburgh will have little chance to win at Sheffield on past performances but will be looking to win at Hull and Glasgow. Their chances may well depend on getting a fit Robert Eriksson back in the side. As things stand the odds will probably be against Monarchs thanks to the number of injuries suffered to date.
The Southern Group looks rather more straightforward with Reading and Swindon already looking secure bets for qualification. That is subject to the proviso that the Isle of Wight and Arena Essex have completed few matches to date. Reading and Swindon do look markedly stronger than Newport and Exeter. Newcomers Trelawny have suffered a heavy home defeat by Reading. They may develop a real home advantage on the tiny St. Austell track but this will probably be too late for their Premier National Trophy campaign.
Results and tables are linked below: