Matej Zagar won over some of his Arlington critics with a high-class maximum last night, then said: “It’s a pleasure to ride here.”

The Slovenian was untouchable in all five rides as Eastbourne claimed a 50-42 verdict over Ipswich to make sure of Elite League survival.

Zagar had missed four of the previous six home meetings due to illness and injury but there was no stopping him last night.

Eagles fans will hope for more of the same in the Knockout Cup, which now becomes the focus of their attention this season.

Zagar’s commitment to the Eagles cause has been questioned by some fans but he said: “I always give 100% when I ride over here and today 100% was enough to get a full max.

“I’m pleased for the club. We got the crucial points to secure our position in the league so that is the main thing.

“I’ve missed meetings due to injury. I got over one injury and took a bad smash in Poland so I had to take another ten days off. Obviously it proved to be the right decision because I came back here fully fit and rode like I need to.”

Full report in The Argus today