Speedway: I'll soften blow of Grajczonek KO, says Glasgow Tigers hero Richard Sweetman

Jul 7 2011 By Fraser Wilson

Richard Sweetman

Listen to the full interview with Richard Sweetman here.

GLASGOW TIGERS new boy Richard Sweetman reckons he can fill the boots of crocked fans' favourite Josh Grajczonek and help the club forge ahead in the Premier League title race.

Sweetman was thrust into action on Sunday against Leicester - the side he left only days earlier - and made an immediate impact by winning two of his four races.

The Aussie's impressive nine-point tally helped Glasgow to a comfortable 60-32 win and moved them back into the top two, earning him a warm welcome from the Ashfield faithful.

But the 20-year-old from New South Wales knows he has his work cut out if he is to live up to the standards of his compatriot and friend - Tigers favourite Grajczonek.

Sweetman said: "I suppose I'm pretty lucky to find myself joining a team challenging for the league title.

"It's not so good for Josh as he is probably out for the rest of the season and I wish him a speedy recovery. Can I fill his boots? I certainly hope so. He is very popular around here and everyone loves him but I will try my hardest and do what I can do.

"It's a good team here and I had lots of fun on my debut both on the track and in the pits. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the season."

Sweetman was dumped by Leicester due to a poor record on their new Beaumont Park track.

But he had already proved in a KO Cup clash in May that he is a formidable rider at Ashfield.

And the Aussie shook off pre-meeting nerves to tear up the Possil track again on his debut on Sunday.

He said: "I think this track suits me. I made a few changes recently to my bikes and other equipment so hopefully it pays off.

"I can't afford to go downhill now, it has to be all uphill. It was a bit nerve-wracking on Sunday and I'm glad it's over but that's just how it worked out.

"I only found out on Thursday Glasgow wanted me and this happened to be the first meeting since then."