By Henry Chard
The Ipswich ‘Tru Plant’ Witches have completed the signing of Jake Allen for the 2019 Premiership season.
Allen has been much sought after this winter after an impressive end to 2018 but it is the Witches who have won the race for his signature.
The 23-year-old began his British speedway career in 2016 with Somerset as the Rebels won the league and league cup and he has stayed with the club since his arrival in the country, establishing a 4.56 average in the Premiership last season and winning the Knockout Cup in the process. Allen is now looking forward to a new chapter in his career with Ipswich.
“I’m very excited, I had a strong end to my 2018 season and it’s something I’m looking forward to building on for the 2019 season,” said Allen. “It will be good for me to get away from Somerset also, a few things went on behind the scenes last year that I was quite disappointed with and how they were handled, so it will be great to have a breath of fresh air here at Ipswich.”
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about the club, sponsors and fans. I’m eager to get back and meet everyone. I’ve only ever been to Ipswich twice in my first season in 2016. I felt I went good considering I hadn’t seen the track before. Hopefully I’ll be all dialled in in no time and be getting good solid consistent scores.”
The Queenslander spent time with Scunthorpe in the Championship last campaign and increased his average to 7.37 having started the year on 6.08 and he believes he will settle down at Foxhall in no time.
“I’ve only been there twice but I enjoyed it both times, I’m not sure I scored a whole lot of points but I know I’m a much better rider now and more confident in myself, so I’m sure that I’ll come to terms with the track in no time and increasing my average is a must for me this year! I’m definitely looking forward to it.”
The Australian joins Danny King in the Witches line-up and he is keen to learn from the experienced members of the team.
“I just want to concentrate on being consistent and increasing my average. I’d like to move into the main body of the team and learn from the more experienced guys in the team. Most of all though I just want to have fun and enjoy my racing, after all it is the best job ever!”
Allen is back in his homeland enjoying the off-season but the preparations for 2019 begin after the festive period.
“I’ve been working, training a little bit when I haven’t been at work. I finish this weekend so after Christmas and New Year I’ll begetting back into my training schedule and will be race-ready when I get back in the lovely English weather! I love coming home it’s great to get away from it all for a bit and just unwind and recharge the batteries for another big season!”
2019 Season Tickets are now available to purchase, all the details can be found here. Supporters wishing to buy their ticket in person can do so on Saturday 22nd December between 10am-1pm at Foxhall Stadium with hot drinks and mince pies on offer.