HORSPATH Hammers pulled off a notable and thrilling success in their Midlands League fixture at Birmingham.

Taking on a side packed full of Great Britain internationals, the visitors knew they would have to be at their best to pick up anything from the match.

But their whole team produced a superb display to edge to a 91-87 success.

Hammers took an early lead thanks to good performances from the Jack Ellis and Jake Neighbour pairing as well as the Lukas Nowacki and Will Jeffery combination.

A series of 5-5 races followed, showing how well matched the sides were.

Zac Payne and George Horsley then banged in a 7-3 maximum to hand Hammers a useful eight-point advantage.

However, their gap was immediately reduced when England captain Paul Heard and indoor British Champion Ricky Johnson returned the favour over Ellis and Neighbour.

More superb action followed in the second half with 16-year-old Owen Johnson superbly shepherded home by Jeffery for another maximum.

Although Horspath led by 11 points, Birmingham fought back.

However, a 6-4 win for Jeffery and Ellis in heat 16 proved crucial, moving Hammers eight points ahead with just two races to go.

A nightmare next heat saw Nowacki’s chain come off when in front, forcing the rider to push his bike around to claim a solitary point.

But Horsley’s second place ensured Horspath remained six points ahead.

And although the hosts got the better of the final race, Hammers had done enough to secure a hard-fought success.

Horspath Hammers: Payne 16+1, Nowacki 16, Jeffery 13+2, Ellis 13, Horsley 10, Neighbour 9+1, Johnson 8, Liebermann 6.

  • THREE Horspath Hammers have been selected to race for England in the Home Internationals in Ipswich today.

Zac Payne will line up for the senior side with Will Jeffery and debutant Jack Ellis called up to compete in the under 18 team.

All are expected to feature strongly in the battles with Ireland, Scotland and Wales alongside the top riders from around the country.