STUNNING Swindon launched the defence of their Elite League title with a 63-27 demolition of Lakeside at Blunsdon.

Skipper Hans Andersen and new signing Eddie Kennett were in unstoppable form and were both unbeaten by an opposing rider.

But Excalibur Communications co-owner Gary Patchett also expressed some concern about the attendance after the meeting.

He said: "The first thing I should do is praise the team, they were magnificent. They all put in a shift and put Lakeside to the sword in a convincing manner.

"We are delighted with the early season form, the boys have hit the ground running and we go to Lakeside on Friday full of confidence.

"But I must also place on record my concern about the attendance. I want everyone who was here to know how much we appreciate their support on an unbelievably cold night, our thanks to them.

"All I'm saying is the crowd level was a cause for concern. Hopefully better times are on the way."

Swindon have booked Steve Worrall to replace the unavailable Ashley Birks at Purfleet on Friday and they'll use the rider replacement facility for Nick Morris who is also missing.

Swindon 63: Peter Kildemand 12, Hans Andersen 12, Troy Batchelor 11+1, Edward Kennett 10+2, Nick Morris 7+2, Kacper Gomolski 6+3, Kyle Howarth 5.

Lakeside 27: Davey Watt 7, Piotr Swiderski 5+1, Kim Nilsson 5+1, Robert Mear 4+1, Peter Karlsson 3+1, Richard Lawson 3, Lewis Bridger 0.