GB 50 Australia 40

Great Britain got this Premier International five-meeting Test series against Australia off to the perfect start with a 50-40 victory at Foxhall Stadium.

In a night of tigerish racing and fast times, GB took an early lead, but saw it pegged back, before pulling away in the final third of the meeting.

Richard Lawson, the Workington Comets No.1 proved an inspired reserve for GB, netting three victories, while it was apt for home fans to cheer Witches star Ben Barker onto victory in heat 13 to secure victory.

Ipswich’s Leigh Lanham had a couple of good rides, while team-mate Adam Ellis was always on the pace.

Australia will be disappointed, with only Jason Doyle and Josh Grajczonek seriously getting among the home riders.

Full report and picture special in Friday’s EADT and Ipswich Star.