The Somerset Rebels defeated Ipswich to finish top of the Premier League.

THE Cases Somerset Rebels assured themselves of finishing in top place in speedway’s Premier League with a fine display against second-placed Ipswich Witches.

The Rebels finally overcame the Witches in the final two heats of the match to snatch a 46-44 victory.

Needing a win to guarantee themselves of finishing the regular season at the top of the league table, it was Ipswich who made all the early running, twice holding a six-point advantage.

On each occasion, the Rebels clawed themselves back into the match before finally taking the lead for the first time in the penultimate heat, which was followed by a stunning last race win by Somerset’s Josh Grajczonek to give them the all-important victory.

“The boys really wanted to finish the regular league season at the top of the Premier League table and despite Ipswich giving it everything, defeat was not an option for us,” said a delighted Garry May, the Somerset team manager.

“We were on the back foot for virtually the whole match, but this is a Rebels side that never knows when it is beaten and they proved that here tonight by pulling victory out of the fire in those final two heats.”

“Although finishing the regular season top of the Premier League table does not give us the championship title, it does give us a timely boost to our confidence as we head into the play-offs, which will decide who will be crowned as the 2013 Premier League Championship.”