DANNY Ford hailed the resilience of Pirates charger Nico Covatti as the reserve starred on his return from injury.

Covatti secured 10 paid 12 on Thursday in Poole’s SGB Premiership victory over rivals Ipswich at Wimborne Road.

The meeting was the Argentinian’s first for the Dorset side since he suffered a painful rib injury from a crash with team-mate Richie Worrall last month.

However, he showed no signs of rustiness in a strong performance alongside impressive contributions from Jack Holder, Nicolai Klindt and Josh Grajczonek as Pirates claimed a 48-42 triumph.

Co-promoter Ford said: “It never ceases to amaze me how resilient these riders are.

“Less than a month ago, Nico was involved in a horrifying crash and was left struggling to breathe. Yet last night you’d never have known he had suffered a serious injury at all.

“He was absolutely superb and, alongside Ricky Wells, I believe we have two of the most powerful reserves in the league.”

“It was a superb meeting with some great racing between two very good teams who I think will be right in the mix at the end of the season.”

Poole are now not in action until Thursday, August 1, when they meet Peterborough at home.