GLADIATORS HEAD FOR CUP SEMI

PLYMOUTH reserve Daniel Klima delivered a sensational display as the Gladiators advanced to the MAXiCab KO Cup semi-finals at the expense of Glasgow.

Klima racked up 17+3 from a full seven-ride stint at reserve in the second leg at the Coliseum, dropping his only point to Kevin Juhl Pedersen in his final race when the tie was already in the bag.

The Tigers had taken a four-point lead into the meeting but this was wiped out within two races, and Plymouth’s progression was secured as early as Heat 12 when Klima combined with Joe Thompson for a 5-1.

Scott Nicholls scored 10 for the Gladiators whilst Kyle Howarth (11) and Chris Harris (10+2) combined for two late consolation Glasgow 5-1s to leave the score on the night 51-39, with the Gladiators going through by eight points overall.

Klima said: “I’m really happy today. I was enjoying myself, enjoying the track and all evening it was great. I’m happy that we won today, and we have to keep going.”

Glasgow boss Cami Brown said: “Plymouth are a good side this season but we didn’t push them hard enough.

“Our top five matched their top five. The difference was from the reserve berths. They had a trump card in Daniel Klima. He was the difference. 

“We are all gutted that our poor Cup record continues. We had poor luck at Ashfield in the first leg with mechanical issues. The damage was done in the last four races in the first leg.”

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Photo credit: SAM WHITFIELD