SWINDON gained another away point in their hard fought 48-42 defeat at Birmingham on Friday.

Ronnie Russell’s men were yet again depleted with skipper Simon Stead out with rib damaged sustained in Poland and month ago.

But they still managed to dig deep and add a point to their Elite League total and with Stead hoping to return against Eastbourne on Monday week hopes are high for the Robins.

New signings Nicolai Klindt (11) and Jesper B Monberg (5+1) did their job in support of Scott Nicholls (14).

Swedish star Daniel Nermark secured his best score in Brummies colours with 12 and skipper Krzysztof Kasprzak was the last heat hero to win the match after bouncing back from earlier misfortune.

The racing, once again, was sensational and Nermark had the edge over visiting top man Scott Nicholls in the last lap.

The close scoreline worked in Birmingham’s favour as Swindon were unable to nominate a rider for double points.

Heat 13 was the race of the night as Nermark and Nicholls traded places for the lead and it was the Brummies man who came through for the win.

BIRMINGHAM 48: Daniel Nermark 12, Krzysztof Kasprzak 9, Ales Dryml 7+1, Ben Barker 7+1, Danny King 6, Adam Roynon 5+1, James Wright 4+2

SWINDON 42: Scott Nicholls 14, Nicolai Klindt 11, Maciej Janowksi 9, Jesper B Monberg 5+1, Josh Grajczonek 2, Justin Sedgmen 1, Simon Stead R/R