PIRATES racer Brady Kurtz launched a robust defence of his riding credentials and told his critics: “I’m not Jason Doyle so give me a break.”

The Australian star came under fire after scoring two paid three and six in home and away meetings against Somerset earlier this month.

Kurtz suffered two tapes-related exclusions during the fixture at the Oaktree Arena, his modest points haul prompting some fans to question his ability to fulfil the spearhead role.

However, the 21-year-old bounced back with a 12-point salvo in the 54-36 triumph over Swindon at Wimborne Road on Wednesday, giving him an injection of confidence ahead of tomorrow’s crucial double header against Somerset at home (12.30pm) and Swindon away (7.30pm).

Responding to his critics, Kurtz told the Daily Echo: “One bad week doesn’t make a speedway season and I think I copped the weight of a whole lot of flak.

“I proved against Swindon that I can do it and I was happy to get a few wins.

“I’m 21 years old. I’m not Jason Doyle and I’m not world champion so give me a bit of a break sometimes.

“I can beat the good guys on my day but I can’t do it every week like Jason and I’m open about that.

“I’ve been here for two years, not 10 seasons. I don’t think there is anyone else of my age who has come to the best club in England and had to step up to be number one – not by my choice.

“I think I’ve done a decent enough job. I helped to take us to play-offs last year and we are well on our way again this year.“

Kurtz racked up 11 points while guesting for Belle Vue at Swindon earlier this month.

“I really like riding there,” he added.

“It’s a track which suits me and I always seem to go well there so, hopefully, Monday can be the same.”

A win over Somerset would see Pirates guarantee themselves a higher finish than Swindon.

The Rebels have been hit by the triple absence of Richard Lawson due to illness and Jake Allen and Bradley Wilson-Dean due to injuries.

Nikolaj Busk Jakobsen and Tero Aarnio have been drafted in as guests at reserve. Indications last night were that rider replacement would be utilised in place of Lawson.

Meanwhile, new averages released by the British Speedway Promoters’ Association revealed Richie Worrall would drop to reserve for Poole’s last regular-season meeting.

Worrall will be in the bottom two for the home clash with Wolverhampton on Wednesday, September 5, with Kacper Woryna moving into the main body.

Pirates: (from) Brady Kurtz, Josh Grajczonek, Richie Worrall, Nicolai Klindt, Chris Harris, Kacper Woryna, Frederik Jakobsen.

Somerset: (from) Jason Doyle, Aaron Summers, Nico Covatti, guest or rider replacement, Jack Holder, Tero Aarnio (guest), Nikolaj Busk Jakobsen (guest).

Swindon: (from) Troy Batchelor, David Bellego, Adam Ellis, Nick Morris, Tobiasz Musielak, Zach Wajtknecht, Jack Smith.