SWINDON got their Elite League campaign off to a promising start as they fought their way to an away point against Lakeside.

Despite finding themselves 11 points behind early on, the Robins staged a determined fightback in the closing stages to ensure they did not leave the Arena-Essex Raceway empty handed despite a narrow 47-44 defeat.

Although it was Troy Batchelor and Peter Kildemand who proved the last-heat heroes, boss Alun Rossiter was delighted with a gritty display from his whole side to get their first points of the 2014 season on the board.

Said Rossiter: “I took all the positives out of that – for me that result was as good as a win given how tough a place Lakeside is to visit.

“With our first meeting of the season being cancelled yesterday this was the first time all the boys had ridden together and it took a while to get going.

“Up until heat ten we hadn’t won a race but everyone dug deep and we came strong in the end. We are certainly happy with that result and it’s a very encouraging way to start our season.”

Flying Dane Peter Kildemand top scored for the visitors with a classy display from the No.1 position as he bagged three consecutive wins from his final three rides, whilst skipper Troy Batchelor also provided excellent support with a typically solid performance.

Third heat-leader Nick Morris helped join both Kildemand and Batchelor for two vital 5-1s to help launch the Robins’ comeback and complete a strong top order, whilst returning Nicolai Klindt made a vital contribution from the No.2 position.

Despite an inconsistent evening, Swedish racer Simon Gustafsson completed a strong showing from the Swindon top five on his debut for the club, whilst Darryl Ritchings and Matt Williamson – guesting for first round draft pick Steve Worrall – battled hard for their points in the lower order.

The Robins now prepare to host their first home meeting of the season and continue their encouraging start as Coventry visit the Abbey next Thursday, April 3 (7.30).

Lakeside 47: Richard Lawson 9, Davey Watt 9, Mikkel Bech 9, Lewis Bridger 6+1, Ben Morley 6+1, Adam Ellis 6+1, Peter Karlsson 2

Swindon 44: Peter Kildemand 13+1, Troy Batchelor 11+1, Nick Morris 6+2, Nicolai Klindt 5+2, Simon Gustafsson 4, Darryl Ritchings 3, Matt Williamson 2+2

Elite League points: Lakeside 2 Swindon 1