By John Walsh

Last updated 11:47, Tuesday, 09 September 2008

WORKINGTON’S Joe Haines scored four points from four rides on his England Under-23’s debut last night.

Joe Haines: Four points from four rides on England Under-23s debut

It finished 48-43 to the English at Wolverhampton with Haines producing a solid enough display from the reserve berth.

He had two second places and also ran two lasts as England always had the advantage after collecting a 4-2 in the opening heat.

Former Workington rider James Wright scored seven points riding at number one as he had three seconds and a third.

The 48 - 43 result means team Australia must register a victory at Swindon on Thursday to have any chance of taking overall victory in the three round series. Australia track a strong looking septet for the Blunsdon leg of the competition by fielding Troy Batchelor, Chris Holder and Cameron Woodward in heat leader roles. Swindon fans will be excited by the inclusion of Abbey Stadium favourites Cory Gathercole and Richard Sweetman. Haines retains his place in an England side which will see Wright switch to number three.

Lewis Bridger will be at number one and Tai Woffinden at five whilst Jason King and Ben Barker assume second string roles. At reserve England are represented by Premier league youngsters Robert Mear and Haines.

Teenage sensation Tai Woffinden captains the English side and is once again expected to excel at Blunsdon. The Rye House rider rode the Abbey Stadium brilliantly back in May when he finished third in the British final. Swindon team manager Alun Rossiter is predicting a close meeting: