PROMOTER Matt Ford declared himself pleased with Poole's reserves for 2014 - despite being landed with one of the last picks in yesterday's selection process.

The top brass at each of the 10 Elite League clubs yesterday met in Rugby to choose from 23 up-and-coming riders to fill positions six and seven for next season.

As anticipated, Pirates chief Ford took up the option of retaining 21-year-old Wimborne Road asset Kyle Newman before capturing Lee Smart who was seeded 13th on the list of National League riders.

And while Ford admitted Newman's addition had forced Poole down the pecking order for the second round of selections, he felt 25-year-old Smart, who rode for Stoke Potters in the third tier last season, had the potential to make the grade.

Speaking directly after the draft, Ford told the Daily Echo: “We were very pleased Kyle was protected as one of our assets because he is a Poole boy and has always been a very popular choice with our supporters. It was great to get him on board.

“That essentially gave us the last pick but I have to say we were left with a rider with some good experience in Lee Smart who was exceptional when he visited Bournemouth Buccaneers in the past.

“He is a competent rider and a character who will give you 100 per cent.”

However, Ford revealed the makeup of Poole's tail end could yet change, depending on Smart's availability.

Ford added: “I have yet to speak to Lee and we need to discuss the balance of his commitments. The reserve system is new to everybody and there might be some teething problems.

“There are one or two riders still about so we will see what the next few weeks bring.”