Edinburgh's injury crisis continues. The latest problem is with reserve Brian Turner who fell in heat 2 at Newcastle on Wednesday. He appears to have aggrevated his knee injury sustained at Sheffield and also has a suspected broken scaphoid. If this is confirmed Brian is liable to be out for the season.
John Campbell commented "I just can't believe our misfortune. If Brian is not fit for the Newport clash we're in big trouble."
Blair Scott who made his comeback at Brough Park also looked far from fit and failed to score in five of his seven rides, two of which were against Jon Swales and two against Neil Painter.
Added to this is, Justin Elkins is doubful for the Newport match following the broken fingers sustained against Arena Essex on Sunday. If Monarchs operate rider replacement in the Premier National Trophy final, then they will need reserves who can be relied upon since they will have to take three of Elkins four rides.
David McAllan could substitute for Blair Scott if he is ruled out but presumably cannot fill in for Brian Turner. However McAllan's fitness has also been called into question. Jon Swales, who is riding for Newcastle at the moment may be eligible to take Turner's place on Friday.
As if that is not enough, Kevin Little who has returned to form in the last two matches, fell in heat 15 at Brough Park and limped back to the pits although he ought to be fit for the Newport fixture.
With Ross Brady and James Grieves still recovering from injuries, Peter Carr is probably the only Edinburgh rider approaching full fitness. Stewart McDonald is still some way off a return and a collection will be held on hos behalf on Friday.
Edinburgh will need to secure a big lead in the home leg of the Premier National Trophy Final to ensure an overall victory against the recently strengthened Newport side. Monarchs have won 57-33 and 56-33 against Newport on their two visits to Armadale this year. A repeat performance will do nicely.