ROBINS asset Simon Stead praised Alun Rossiter’s motivational skills after Great Britain’s World Cup Event One success on Saturday.

Swindon team boss Rossiter’s most controversial selection was arguably that of Stead, but the Leicester man repaid his faith as he scored 10 vital points at the Norfolk Arena to help see off USA and Australia.

Stead, himself coming off two tough seasons to play a major part in guiding Britain through to Saturday’s final, credits Rossiter with creating a relaxed atmosphere around the team and convincing his riders of their own ability to win.

“It was an amazing feeling,” he said.

“It’s been a great lead-up, we just chilled out at the hotel the night before, everybody together, and we relaxed and everything was perfect because the atmosphere within the camp was so good.

“Rosco’s installed that belief in us, that’s what he’s so good at, and that’s why he’s here. He kept saying ‘believe, believe’ and it’s worked for us.

“We probably weren’t favourites and we did get some luck on the day and we got off to a good start.

“Woffy leads by example and is a great credit, an influential member, but the banter and the vibe in the team is maybe worth that extra vital point or two.

“Every single one of us pulled our weight and that’s so important going into the final.”

Stead’s victory over Darcy Ward in heat one on Saturday set the tone for what was to follow, with the Leicester man admitting early track conditions tend to suit his riding style.

“I’m at my strongest when the track’s a bit grippier early in the meeting and I started off really well,” he said.

“I’m not one for looking at who’s in the races but I got my head down and new I had good gate positions when the track was at its most favourable for me.

“I wanted to make sure I got off to a good start, which I did, and to get 10 points is great although the most important thing is getting through.”