The Hammers saw victory snatched from their grasp at the final count in their match at Smallmead last night.

A compelling Premier League encounter with little to separate the teams during the match saw the visitors lead 43-41 going into the final heat.

But the nominated pairing of Leigh Lanham and Joonas Kylmakorpi found themselves chasing shadows after an electric start by home duo, Andrew Appleton and Phil Morris.

And despite the strenuous efforts of the Hammers to break the Racers dominance, they were unable to find a way through.

But there was much to admire in this Arena performance, their first away match of the new season.

Kelvin Tatum gained three heat wins and Kylmakorpi recovered from a dropped point in his opening ride to reel off three heat wins before dipping when put in the final and conclusive heat of the match.

Lanham was also in winning vein, collecting two victories.

Henning Bager chipped in with paid six from four rides, while young gun Jason King gave a creditable display from the reserve berth.

Published Tuesday, April 8, 2003

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