Millennium factor has Simon smiling (From Swindon Advertiser)

Millennium factor has Simon smiling

7:30am Saturday 4th July 2009

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SIMON Stead is confident his Millennium Stadium experience can be the “turning point” of an inconsistent campaign, as he bids to help Swindon claim Elite League glory.

The 27-year-old was a track reserve at the British Grand Prix in Cardiff last weekend, and although Stead was ultimately left kicking his heels on the sidelines he believes it can have a positive effect on his club form.

And that is already in evidence as Stead followed up paid six at Eastbourne on Monday night with a man-of-the-match paid 14 against the Ipswich Witches on Thursday.

“It’s such an amazing place and one that, even though I didn’t get a ride, it was a pleasure to be part of,” said the Robins ace.

“It’s just another level, but I felt great in practice and was confident that if I got a ride I could do something. To go out and feel like that in that sort of company gave me confidence.

“I’ve just got to concentrate on my starting away from home. If I can do it at one place then there’s no reason why I can’t do it at any others.

“Hopefully that is a turning point in my season and I can use the Grand Prix as a springboard and concentrate on performing well for Swindon.”

Stead missed out on selection to Team GB for the World Cup event in Peterborough on Monday, July 13, as national boss Rob Lyon selected a young British line up to face Australia, Poland and Slovenia.

The Yorkshire-born rider revealed he was disappointed not to get a call-up, but admitted his performances probably haven’t warranted a ride.

“At the end of the day Rob’s got to go with whoever he thinks is going to do the job, and I don’t think it is a bad move putting the younger lads in,” said Stead.

“I got my chance when I was younger and it really worked out for Middlo (Neil Middleditch), who was the manager at the time.

“It may work in his favour because there’s not a huge amount of pressure. They can go out, concentrate and let the meeting work for them.

“Of course I’m disappointed not to be involved but ultimately my performances haven’t justified me going in there.

“Maybe lately they have a little bit more, but over the course of the season they haven’t.

“Rob’s got to do whatever he thinks is best and I am behind them 100 per cent. I’ll keep my fingers crossed and hope they can go out and do a good job.”

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