Battered Baldwin out of league clash.

Arena Essex reserve Carl Baldwin has ruled himself out of tomorrow night's home Premier League match against joint league leaders, the Isle of Wight, with Mark Thompson announced as his replacement.

Baldwin has been having intensive treatment throughout this week in a bid to overcome the injuries he sustained in a crash during last Friday's home match against Edinburgh.

Although no bones were broken, the Englishman suffered extensive bruising to his back, arms and shoulders but, nevertheless, was hoping to be fit to ride in tomorrow's match. However early on Thursday morning he was forced to admit defeat in his fitness battle and telephoned the club to impart the news.

"Carl felt that with him being less than 100% fit, he couldn't do himself or the club justice if he tried to ride against the Islanders," said Club spokesman Alan Sargent. "He's bitterly disappointed but is determined to be back in action next week. For tomorrow's match, we have drafted in our official No.8, Mark Thompson as his replacement.

"Mark has been turning in some pretty impressive performances for Mildenhall lately in the Conference League and I'm sure will relish this opportunity of an outing at Premier League level."

Revised Teams:

Arena-Essex:

1. KELVIN TATUM
2. SHAUN TACEY ( C )
3. COLIN WHITE
4. LEE HERNE
5. LEIGH LANHAM
6. ANDY GALVIN
7. MARK THOMPSON

Team manager: RONNIE RUSSELL

IIsle of Wight Islanders:

1. RAY MORTON ( C )
2. HENNING BAGER
3. DANNY BIRD
4. MATT READ R/R
5. ADAM SHIELDS
6. NICK SIMMONS
7. GARY PHELPS

Team Manager:JED STONE