Eagles bring back six (From The Argus)

Eagles bring back six

6:00am Friday 13th January 2012 in Eagles news By Brian Owen

Eastbourne have confirmed six members of last season's high-flying team will be back in 2012.

But they have yet to announce the identity of their new signing at reserve.

Cameron Woodward, Joonas Kylmakorpi, Lewis Bridger, Simon Gustafsson, Timo Lahti and fit-again Lukas Dryml have all agreed deals bringing them back to Arlington.

Dryml has assured Eagles of his recovery from a broken femur, which ended his 2011 campaign in heart-breaking style when he crashed at Birmingham on July 30.

Eagles have about 4.50 points with which to complete their line-up.

The new man is expected to be a newcomer to the Elite League on a potentially bargain assessed average.

He will slot in alongside the inexperienced Lahti at reserve.

Eagles manager Trevor Geer said: “We have people in mind and have been approached by a number of riders.

"It is a crucial signing and Eastbourne Speedway is working hard to bring in a rider who we feel will significantly increase his starting average.”

Bjarne Pedersen, Eagles' No.1 last season riding on loan from Poole, is the only departure. He linked up with Birmingham several weeks ago.

Dryml remains on loan from Peterborough but otherwise Eagles' side is made up of their own riders.

Eagles, operating on one of the lowest budgets in the league, have again opted for strength in depth rather than top-end power.

The policy served them well last season, when they finished second in the table and reached the play-off final.

Kylmakorpi faces a challenging first season at the top of the order, taking on the league's very best riders on a regular basis.

Dryml will ride with a large metal pin in his thigh but is due to have two smaller pins removed this month.

A fans’ forum and a staff meeting are planned for Sunday, February 19.

Press and practice day will be on March 17 with the first Elite League fixture at home to Belle Vue on March 24.