PREVIEW: Chargers look to go back-to-back against Belle Vue Colts in Manchester

The World Speedway Riders’ Association Oxford Chargers powered by SD Timmo resume their National League campaign on Friday evening away to Belle Vue Colts (7.30pm).

Fresh from Wednesday’s opening night triumph over defending league champions Leicester Lion Cubs, Peter Schroeck has announced an unchanged line-up ahead of his side’s trip to the National Speedway Stadium.

Chargers delivered a come-from-behind victory over Cubs courtesy of four race advantages in the meeting’s concluding seven heats which contributed towards the hosts’ convincing 50-39 victory.

Team Manager Schroeck described Wednesday’s result and performance as the “perfect” way to kick-start Chargers’ 2023 campaign. And he hopes for more of the same away from home on Friday when going wheel-to-wheel with the Manchester outfit.

“Wednesday was a great result for us in difficult conditions,” said Schroeck. “But that’s history now and we’ve got to look forward to what will be a tough meeting in Manchester against Belle Vue.

“The National Speedway Stadium is one of the greatest facilities our sport has in the world. The track is big and wide, with plenty of room for exploring different racing lines which can catch riders unfamiliar with the circuit out.

“We’ve got to be on our guard and stick to the basics by avoiding last places and letting the boys enjoy their racing. Even at this early stage, there’s a great feeling of belief amongst this team that we can put some serious pressure on the top teams this year.

“I like the spirit in the camp, and we’ll travel north full of confidence.”

Friday’s meeting is the first of two fixtures for Chargers this weekend. Following the club’s trip to Manchester, Schroeck’s side return to action on Sunday away to Mildenhall Fen Tigers.

Tapes-up at the National Speedway Stadium is at 7.30pm.

WSRA Chargers: Jordan Jenkins, Jacob Clouting, Henry Atkins, Jody Scott, Ryan Kinsley, Luke Killeen, Jacob Fellows.

Belle Vue Colts: Jack Smith, Luke Muff, Sam Hagon, Matt Marson, James Pearson, Jack ShimeIt, Freddy Holder.