PREVIEW: Cheetahs face “toughest test of the season” away to Glasgow

Peter Schroeck believes the Monarch Oxford Cheetahs will face one of their “toughest tests this season” when going wheel-to-wheel with play-off hopefuls Glasgow Tigers on Friday.

The Tigers are unbeaten at home in the Championship this season and boast a star-studded squad including former British Champion Craig Cook, highly rated Tom Brennan and talented Dane Benjamin Basso.

Only Edinburgh Monarchs and Poole Pirates and left the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium with league points this season.

Despite this, Monarch Cheetahs coach Peter Schroeck sees no reason why his side can’t target another eye-catching performance on the road – particularly after last week’s effort at Redcar.

“We had some tough away meetings at the start of the season, we can’t deny that,” said Schroeck. “Speedway is a sport where you have to use your track knowledge to maximise results at home while on the road it’s key to have a game plan.

“Our recent trips to Birmingham and Redcar have been really encouraging and to earn four points from those two fixtures is the form we need to carry through the rest of the season if we’re to reach the play-offs.

“Glasgow is a unique track. It’s fast, the straights are long, and the shape of the bends really allow riders to attack the banking and build up speed. We know how powerful Glasgow can be at home, it’s up to us to workout the setup and make an early impression.

“They’re due a lot of rain in the morning, which can definitely work to our advantage as the weather will impact track preparation. The boys are confident and ready for the challenge.”  

The Monarch Cheetahs will hand experienced Australian Aaron Summers his club debut as he fills in for the injured Jack Thomas.

Thomas crashed out of last week’s Premiership clash between King’s Lynn and Ipswich where he broke both his wrists. Summers was confirmed as Thomas’ injury cover earlier this week, and Schroeck is excited to see what the former Championship title winner can bring to the team.

“What happened to Jack is really gutting,” said Schroeck. “He was improving with every meeting and we’re really sad to lose him to a quite serious injury.

“We’re continually in discussion with Jack as we see his future being at Oxford and we want to work with him to facilitate a quick but safe recovery. Aaron brings a lot of experience to the team which will be vital, particularly on the road.

“We’re not putting too much pressure on him tonight, this is his first meeting back after announcing his retirement last year. Aaron spent three seasons with Glasgow, so hopefully his pockets of knowledge can inspire a good result and team performance.” Tapes-up at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium is at 7.30pm. The Monarch Cheetahs are next in action at home on Wednesday, June 22, when hosting Glasgow Tigers. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here.