PREVIEW: No change to Cheetahs’ mentality ahead of Berwick trip

The Monarch Oxford Cheetahs resume their Cab Direct Championship campaign away to Berwick Bandits on Saturday, and Peter Schroeck confirmed spirits remain high in the camp.

Cheetahs recorded their third straight Championship win on home shale against Birmingham Brummies to go top of the nine-team division to the delight of another strong crowd.

Owing to three Championship fixtures on Friday evening, Cheetahs could lose top spot by time they line-up at tapes at Shielfield Park.

But that isn’t of concern to Team Manager Peter Schroeck, who is pleased with the progress his side is making while being equally aware of keeping his riders in check with the tough nature of the league.

“Wednesday was a real highlight of Oxford Speedway’s regeneration to date,” said Schroeck. “The supporters really got behind the team even when the win was confirmed and that’s testament to their passion for both the club and sport.

“It’s easy when the Cheetahs and Chargers are in good form to get carried away, but in reality nothing within the camp has changed. We know how speedway can slingshot you back to square one in one night, so the boys remained focused and the table is irrelevant to us.

“Berwick is a difficult track to master due to its long and narrow straights. The boys who double-up with the Chargers got an early sighter a fortnight ago which will be useful. But otherwise we’re expecting a very tough test.

“There’s a good mix of youth and experience in the Berwick team, much like ourselves, so our first aim is to keep the scores close and then reassess the situation once we reach the closing heats.

“This is a big week for the club with a trip to Plymouth and Poole’s visit on the horizon. In several months’ time, these meeting could prove to be season defining, so we want to do a good job.”

Tapes-up at Shielfield Park is at 7pm on Saturday night.

Berwick Bandits: Rory Schlein, Leon Flint, Jye Etheridge, Jonas Knudsen, Thomas Jorgensen, Jacob Hook, Connor Coles.

Monarch Cheetahs: Sam Masters, Lewis Kerr, Cameron Heeps, Jordan Jenkins, Scott Nicholls, Henry Atkins, Ryan Kinsley.