Despite problems track-side, which meant there was no PA system operating, the riders put on a terrific display of fully committed riding, that belied the notion that challenge matches are dull, boring affairs. Exeter tracked a very strong lineup, which tested the Rebels - it was good to see the Falcon race-jacket being kept alive during their sabbatical year. All-action heatsAfter the first four heats, Somerset had established a six-point lead, providing three out of the four race-winners. This lead was stretched by a further two points in an all-action heat five. Michael Coles rolled back the years with a lightening start, but was soon picked off by Stephan Katt, who established a good lead, aware of the action unfolding behind him. The Exeter duo of Mark Lemon and Michael Coles seemed to have settled into the minor places.  | | Stephan Katt leads Exeter's Tommy Allen |
But Glenn Phillips had not been accounted for - he made an outrageous pass between the two Falcons on the third bend. Lemon then came back past Phillips, only for the Rebel number four to cut back under Lemon on the final bend. Having got the better drive coming off the turn, it was the Aussie who just got the verdict on the line. Pulsating racingJordan Frampton may not be a familiar name to many, but the youngster, who has been riding well in the second half at Somerset this season, certainly nailed his colours to the Premier League mast with his performance tonight. He made an excellent start in heat eight and held off all challenges of his more experienced opponents, who tried every line possible to pass him. Not at all fazed by the pressure, the 21-year-old held his nerve until Ben Barker tried an inside pass that ended in tears. Barker brought Frampton sliding to the ground, and referee Graham Reeve had no option but to exclude the Somerset reserve. Heat 13 was another classic, as there was never more than a couple of bike lengths between all four riders. Although Somerset eventually finished victorious by a seven-point margin, the match result was almost secondary. The real winners tonight were the fans, who were treated to 15 heats of pulsating racing, credit for which should be given to all 14 riders who took to the track. | 
