Lawson 'had to do it the hard way' as Pirates tame Tigers

Rocketman Richard Lawson continued his incredible record around Wimborne Road as Poole Pirates built a commanding 14-point lead in the semi-finals of the Knockout Cup.

The British charger recorded his fifth home maximum of the season, going through the card to score 15 points from five rides as Poole beat Glasgow 58-32. 

Skipper Zach Cook (12+1) was also dialled in, with youngster Will Cairnes (7+1) and Dane Tobias Thomsen (7+1) also impressing. 

Chris Harris (10) and Kyle Howarth (9+1) led the way for the Tigers but they proved no match for Lawson’s irresistible performance. 

Lawson said: “I had to do it the hard way. 

“But you know when you come to these semi-finals and finals you've really got to work hard. 

“I hit the ground, I didn't make starts, I did make starts. It kind of had all sorts you know, but I was just glad we came through it as a team. 

“Fair play to Zach in heat fifteen. I was checking on his whereabouts and that was probably one of the best rides I have seen him do this season. When you've got both Bomber and Howarth right behind you it is not easy.”

?? HEAT 15 HEROES!

?? Richard Lawson & Zach Cook slam in a HUGE 5-1 over the Tigers!

??‍?? #PiratePride pic.twitter.com/Qu0y2V3XIP

— Poole Pirates Speedway (@poolespeedway) August 27, 2025

The sides will contest the second leg of the semi-final clash at Ashfield on September 7.

Pirates have reached the knockout phases of each domestic competition. 

They also have a 14-point lead in the semi-final of the BSN Series against Oxford and will await the conclusion of the league campaign to learn their Championship play-off opposition.

(Picture: Taylor Lanning Photography)