Jon Cook's Lakeside finished third in the 2009 Elite League

Lakeside Hammers boss Jon Cook says he would rather face table-toppers Poole Pirates than Wolverhampton in the Elite League play-offs.

The Hammers sit third in the table and despite the Pirates dominating the season Cook believes they are there for the taking.

He told BBC Essex: "I think if you look at Poole they're starting to look a little bit weary.

"It would be quite nice if Poole pick us because we can avoid Wolverhampton."

Poole's form has been inconsistent of late after a start to the season that saw them lose just two of their opening 11 meetings.

They are still 14 points clear of second-placed Wolves though, but Cook is wary of the Midlands side.

"In the play-off stages Wolverhampton probably will be fancying themselves as favourites," he added.

I still feel 50 points is going to be safe, Coventry and Peterborough look like they're going to be in a dogfight for that fourth position Lakeside Hammers boss Jon Cook

"I think Wolverhampton's track is probably the biggest trick track in speedway.

"It absolutely suits them, as their record of not being beaten there in two seasons shows.

"The Poole track is a big sweeping track and if you get the right set up on the day you can beat anyone there."

Cook's men still need to mathematically secure their play-off berth, a win against visiting Swindon Robins on Friday could seal the deal.

"Our hopes would be we can get the win against Swindon, that will take us to 50 points," he said.

"I still feel 50 points is going to be safe, Coventry and Peterborough look like they're going to be in a dogfight for that fourth position."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version