Pirates 'weren't good enough' as BSN Series hopes left in the balance

Number one Richard Lawson admitted Poole Pirates “weren’t good enough” as their BSN Series hopes were left in the balance.

The Pirates were beaten 46-44 by rivals Oxford on home shale on Wednesday, meaning they missed the chance to top the Southern Group of the competition.

They could still qualify for the semi-finals as the best runner-up in the three-group format.

But Lawson, who led the way for Poole with 13 points from five rides, admitted his frustration.

He said: "I don't really know what to say, it was one of those frustrating nights.

“But I am not going to stand here and make excuses. We weren't good enough and we will have to take a look back at this and make sure it doesn't happen again."

Pirates had trailed by 10 points after five heats at Wimborne Road. The contest was then delayed by more than an hour after Dan Gilkes needed medical attention following a crash, as well as taking to hospital.

Despite Poole closing the gap, Aussies Sam Masters (16) and Mitch McDiarmid (13) played starring roles in helping Oxford record victory, as well as a semi-final spot as group winners.