PREVIEW: Chargers going for top spot during Royals’ Wednesday visit
The World Speedway Riders’ Association Oxford Chargers powered by SD Timmo can bounce back to the top of the National League table when hosting Kent Royals on Wednesday night.
Chargers sit fourth in the eight-team division but hold meetings in hand over current top pair Mildenhall Fen Tigers and Belle Vue Colts with over half of the regular season completed.
Both teams were due to race against each other earlier this month. And while Chargers’ trip to Iwade did go ahead, the meeting was abandoned after four heats following a nasty crash involving Royals’ Jack Kingston.
Although Chargers haven’t taken to the track since, Team Manager Peter Schroeck is entering this week’s home fixture in confident spirits and has every intention of regaining the league’s top spot.
“The boys have been keeping themselves busy, so there’s no danger of us being a little rusty,” said Schroeck. “We know Jordan (Jenkins), Henry (Atkins) and Ryan (Kinsley) have been playing vital roles in the Cheetahs squad, and the rest of the team have been ticking over too.
“The ruthless format of the National League this year means there’s little margin for error. We must place in the top two if we’re to advance to the Grand Final, so winning home meetings is key.
“We’ve done that well so far this year, and on Wednesday we’re looking to keep that run going.”
Chargers enter the meeting boosted by news that Luke Killeen will return to racing following a three-month spell on the sidelines with a wrist injury. Jason Garrod will also make his debut while Cheetahs trio Jordan Jenkins, Henry Atkins and Ryan Kinsley are confirmed to ride.
With the school holidays underway and all U16s entering for free, Schroeck hopes to see another big turnout on the terraces.
“It’s been a really frustrating period for Luke, but we’re delighted to have him back in the squad,” said Schroeck. “He’s itching to get going and having him in the pits will be a real boost for the team.
“Jason is pumped up for his Chargers debut too and I’m sure their enthusiasm coupled with the support on the terraces will make for another memorable night of racing.”
Tickets for Oxford Chargers’ National League tie against Kent Royals are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here.
Adults are priced £12 while ALL U16s go FREE! Doors at Oxford Stadium open at 6pm with racing underway at 7.30pm.
WSRA Chargers powered by SD Timmo: Jordan Jenkins, Jacob Clouting, Ryan Kinsley, Jody Scott, Henry Atkins, Luke Killeen, Jason Garrod.
Kent Royals: Ben Morley, Jack Kingston R/R, Connor King, Tom Woolley, Nathan Ablitt, Sam Woolley, Ashton Vale.
Photo: Steve Edmunds