Tough time for JJL and Plater.

The JJL/UKDiggers.com Team had a tough run at Mallory Park for the sixth round of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, when a fallen rider caused Steve Plater to crash at Charlies, the new chicane on the first lap of the opening race.

After a disappointing qualifying session Plater was relegated to the sixth row of the grid and he realised he would have his work cut out to bring home a strong set of results for the team.

"The bike is working well enough and we have moved forward but I just can't seem to find that extra little bit of speed for some reason," commented Plater, "Each time I went out on a qualifying tyre I had to abort the lap because of slower riders ahead, it just didn't run for me."

Plater fell heavily on his left shoulder and as soon as he was released from the circuit medical centre he went directly to hospital in Lincoln for further x-rays and treatment. The x-rays confirmed that he had indeed broken the shoulder and also his collarbone and he is to return to hospital on Tuesday for further assessment.

"From what I have seen of the TV footage it looks as if Billy McConnell high sided in the middle of the pack crashing into both me and Ollie Bridewell in the process. We all fell but I was the one to come out of it the worst. The other two were able to get back on and continue but I was left nursing a very painful shoulder injury which will see me sidelined for a while," said Plater, "I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. I just need to get the injury sorted and back out there as soon as possible."

Team Principal Lloyd Hopkinson added, "This is a huge set back for us. We had the bike running well and were looking forward to seeing Steve bring some points home for the us today. We need to assess the situation and then make a decision on whether or not to run a temporary rider until Steve is fit enough to make a comeback or whether to sit it out and wait for his recovery. We will have more idea after Tuesday when Steve returns to the hospital and will make our decision shortly."