FORMER Pirates hero Davey Watt is backing Poole to soon overcome their early-season woes by predicting: “They are not going to stay down for long.”

Ex-Wimborne Road ace Watt insists captain Chris Holder can lead a Pirates revival following the Dorset club’s troubled and eventful start to the 2013 campaign.

Watt, a quadruple Elite League title winner with Pirates, still takes a keen interest in Poole’s fortunes as he lives locally and is a close pal of compatriot Holder.

The Lakeside star has seen his old employers endure a nightmare year so far with a series of unfortunate setbacks seriously threatening their play-off prospects.

Pirates, who have seen Darcy Ward, Robert Miskowiak and Przemyslaw Pawlicki all hit by injuries this term, have managed just three league wins in nine outings.

That uncharacteristic record has left Neil Middleditch’s side in seventh spot and already nine points adrift of the all-important play-off places – with promoter Matt Ford making team changes in an attempt to turn the tide.

Pirates also hit the headlines for the wrong reasons last week when postponing their clash with Lakeside in controversial circumstances.

But Watt believes it could only be a matter of time before Pirates find their form.

The 35-year-old told the Daily Echo: “There is no question that Poole have had a bit of a tough time this year.

“But, in saying that, they have also showed some pretty good character, winning at King’s Lynn and having some success in such a bad time.

“They have showed some character – from at least a few of the riders in the team and the management – and that they are trying to stay positive and better themselves.

“I think it is typical Poole. They have always been fighting hard to win and have never accepted losing. It is a tough time for them at the moment but they are not going to stay down for long.”

Watt highlighted the presence of world champion Holder as a major point in Pirates’ favour.

“He is a brilliant rider and he is devoted to Poole Speedway and those are two extremely good qualities to have as a captain,” added Watt.

“There is more to come from Chris but he was the best rider in the world last year and he has proven that he is close to being that again.

“I am sure that as the season unfolds, he will be back on top form. He is riding really well at the moment but is just struggling with his bikes and getting his own set-up. Once he sorts out his few little issues that he has got, he is going to be just about untouchable, like he was last year.”

Holder will lead Pirates into battle at Wimborne Road tonight (7.30pm) as they bid for a third 2013 victory over King’s Lynn.