Speedway test series might end on high note for N.Z.

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32536, 20 February 1971, Page 14

Speedway test series might end on high note for N.Z.

'THE outcome of the third and final speedway test between New Zealand and the touring British Lions, to be held at Templeton tonight, cannot alter the sad fact that the visitors have won the series. New Zealand, which has not been overburdened by success at test level in recent years, lost the first two matches at Auckland. However, there seems to be more than an even chance of the home team salvaging some honour tonight. It has been strengthened by the inclusion of the outstanding 25-year-oid Christchurch rider, A. Brown, who was incredibly passed over by the national selector (Mr D. Tomkins, of Auckland) for the first two tests. And the brilliant Christchurch world champion, I. Mauger, has belatedly been promoted to his rightful place as captain of the side.

With a third Christchurch rider, F. Shuter, also in the test six and yet another, R. Wright, in the reserves, the New Zealand team will not be short of local knowledge. In the second test, won convincingly by Britain, 6840, the promising young New Zealand representative, G. Pearson (New Plymouth), was slightly detuned. He had survived a crash at Napier a few days before and had left hospital only on the morning of the . match. That he rode at all was a tribute to his courage. Peterson was regarded as one of the rising stars in the English second division last northern hemisphere season. He finished at the top of the averages and was third in the British second division championship. Tonight he should be fully recovered from his fall and should prove good value.

All six members of the New Zealand team competed in England last season. The English team, which has been weakened by regular withdrawals since it arrived in Australia some months ago, will be further weakened tonight by the absence of J. McMillan and R. Kilby, who scored 12 points each at Auckland last Saturday. They have been replaced by T. Sweetman and H. Cole, a wellknown figure at Templeton. But it would be very wrong to take it too lightly. Four members of the original touring party, N. Boocock (captain), K. McKinlay, R. Trigg and C, Pusey are in the team and they have been among the most consistent high points scorers throughout the tour. Boocock is well known. He has been the top English rider for some years and never fails to put on a good performance. His great battles with the double world champion, R. L. Moore, in previous Templeton tests will not be forgotten quickly. Pusey is another rider who should be worth watching. He made his name'in grass track racing before taking up speedway and holds the British 350 c.c. and 500 c.c. grass track titles. Recently, he was awarded the Pinhard prize, presented annually to the outstanding motorcyclist under 21 at the start of the season in Britain. In the second test last Saturday he was the top English scorer with 15 points.