THE start of a new speedway era dawns at Foxhall Stadium tonight.

And not for many a year has the anticipation been higher.

A new team, a new league, a new team sponsor and a level of expectation that this young team can lift honours, means much will be expected of the ‘Sackers’ Witches in 2011 – starting tonight.

While young guns Taylor Poole, Jerran Hart and Lasse Bjerre are sure to excite, there is plenty of other racers in this year’s Witches team who should get the Foxhall faithful on their feet.

And plenty of experience t’boot.

None more so than Morten Risager.

Despite being just 23 years of age, Risager is starting his eighth season in British Speedway. A rider who hasn’t achieved the greatness it was once felt he could, Risager is none-the-less a sound signing for the Witches.

Having always been in the Elite League, a move down to the Premier League could be just what he needed at this time in his career.

“I had thought about dropping down into the Premier League last season,” Risager admitted.

“But I would not have done so, only unless it was with a club like Ipswich.

“I rode for Ipswich for a month last season when Leigh Lanham was injured and enjoyed my time with them. So I was happy to go into the Premier League this year with them.”

Indeed Risager, who comes into the side on a 6.10 average, intends to up his game considerably.

“I think as a team we can be top four at the very least and personally I want to push Kevin Doolan for the No. 1 spot.”

Although doubling-up in the Elite League with King’s Lynn and racing in Denmark, Risager makes no bones about the fact Ipswich are his prime concern in 2011.

“Yes, I have a few meetings in Denmark and will double-up for Lynn,” he said.

“But Ipswich is where I want to really achieve this season.”

Tonight’s meeting is the first leg of the Anglian Cup against Rye House, with the second leg at Hoddesdon on Saturday night.

Director of Ipswich Speedway, Chris Louis, believes 2011 will be the most exciting season at Foxhall for many years.

“I don’t remember such camaraderie and general excitement in the pits for many seasons, this is an exceptional bunch of lads,” he said.

“The work ethic to help each other in finding the best set up over the two practise days was very pleasing to see. We had a team meeting afterwards to decide on track conditions for Thursday and the boys know exactly what they want.”

The Rockets include former Witch Ritchie Hawkins in their side, and quality in the likes of Steve Boxall and Chris Neath.

Tonight’s teams

Ipswich ‘Sackers’ Witches: 1 Kevin Doolan, 2 Taylor Poole, 3 Lasse Bjerre, 4 Morten Risager, 5 Chris Schramm, 6 Jerran Hart, 7 Chris Mills.

Team Manager - Pete Simmons

Rye House “Silver Ski” Rockets 1 Jordan Frampton, 2 Luke Bowen, 3 Ritchie Hawkins, 4 Steve Boxall, 5 Chris Neath (c), 6 Ben Morley 7. Tyson Nelson

Team Manager - John Sampford

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