PROMOTER Danny Ford was sympathetic towards Birmingham Brummies and their injury issues – but he still maintains Pirates would have been victorious nonetheless.

Brummies skipper Ashley Morris and former Pirate Stefan Nielsan withdrew after both suffering shoulder injuries in separate incidents, with Pirates eventually romping to a 56-34 win away at Perry Barr.

Speaking to Pirates’ website after the meeting, Pirates promoter Danny Ford said: "Obviously we feel for Birmingham and their problems.

“They already had a heavy injury list, but to then lose two more riders made it a tough task for them and we wish both Ashley (Morris) and Stefan (Nielsen) all the very best for a speedy recovery.

“But, to be honest, our lads were really going well.

“Ben (Cook) had been unbeaten until the nominated ride and he worked really hard to try and complete the maximum in heat 15 but just couldn't get by Jason (Edwards).

“Steve (Worrall) would also (have) had an unbeaten tag had he not suffered engine failure when on a 5-1 in heat 13 and of course we had Richard (Lawson) in scintillating form, just as he has been of late."

Pirates are back in Jubilee league action Friday evening, when they host Brummies at Wimborne Road.