The format for the second series of "Robot Wars" differed from the first in that heat winners did not automatically qualify for the grand final. Instead, they progressed to one of two semi-finals containing six robots, of which four would be eliminated. The semi-finals began with the Gauntlet, and again Roadblock took on the Sentinel. Although it was unable to pass the arm to reach the end zone, it travelled far enough down the course to qualify for the Trial. This round saw the arena transformed into a pinball table, with points awarded for performing various tasks — for instance, hitting the bumper guarded by the house robot Matilda added 50 points to the robot's total. The robot which accumulated the fewest points was eliminated. Roadblock amassed 355 points, easily qualifying for a one-on-one battle against King Buxton to decide which would reach the grand final. The fight was close until an internal fire rendered King Buxton immobilised, after which Roadblock used its tungsten-tipped circular saw to inflict further damage.