KING’S Lynn Young Stars claimed a consolation point from their 44-39 defeat at Kent – but the meeting was overshadowed by an injury to Shane Hazelden.
The popular reserve crashed out in heat 14 and early reports indicate he may have broken his tibia and fibula.
Hazelden was attempting to find a way past Danno Verge when he came to grief and team-mate Ryan Kinsley was left with nowhere to go.
The meeting was subsequently abandoned due to curfew before the final race – and team boss Dale Allitt admitted the incident overshadowed what was a positive result for the Stebbings Car Superstore side against the high-flying Kings.
“Things were going well for us,” Allitt said. “Going into heat 14 we were one point down, and there were high hopes of getting a win.
“At the moment that’s all gone into insignificance really, and all our thoughts are with Shane after his nasty injury. We hope he gets the best treatment possible and is back on the mend soon.”
Hazelden had recorded two vital race wins in the lower order on his way to nine points, whilst Scott Campos and Kinsley both recorded paid double figures.
Solid showings from heat-leaders Nathan Greaves and Josh Bailey ensured it was a strong all-around performance from the Young Stars despite Lewis Whitmore experiencing a tough night.
But James Shanes reeled off four wins from five outings for the hosts whilst Ben Morley struck a four-ride paid maximum to lead them to a narrow win.
The Young Stars will be back in action at the Adrian Flux Arena as they host Coventry Storm next Wednesday, August 17 (7.30).
KENT 44: James Shanes 12, Ben Morley 11+1, Jack Thomas 10, Danno Verge 5, Kelsey Dugard 3+1, David Mason 3, Danny Ayres R/R. KING’S LYNN 39: Scott Campos 9+2, Ryan Kinsley 9+2, Shane Hazelden 9, Nathan Greaves 7, Josh Bailey 5+1, Lewis Whitmore 0, Tom Stokes R/R. Abandoned after 14 heats - Curfew - Result will stand.
