PREVIEW: Cheetahs primed for Good Friday curtain raiser on the south coast

The Monarch Oxford Cheetahs begin the third campaign of the club’s regeneration on Good Friday when travelling south to face rivals Poole Pirates in the BSN Series, 7.30pm.

Peter Schroeck’s side travel to Wimborne Road for the first of four Southern Group fixtures scheduled between now and Wednesday, April 17, against Poole and Plymouth Gladiators respectively.

The team which accumulates the most points once all group stage fixtures are completed will guarantee their spot in the competition’s semi-finals.

Cheetahs have tracked a familiar line-up to the side which narrowly missed out on a place in last year’s Cab Direct Championship Grand Final.

Sam Masters will again ride at number one with seven-times British Champion Scott Nicholls confirmed as club captain. Also returning for a third year is Cameron Heeps while fan favourites Henry Atkins and Jordan Jenkins complete the middle order.

Teenage talents Luke Killeen and Ashton Boughen fill the reserve places.

Schroeck is predicting a tough challenge on the south coast but has placed every faith in his side to make a positive start to their 2024 campaign.

“Poole have been a huge force in British Speedway for many years – and no fixture at Wimborne Road is easy,” said Schroeck. “It’s probably the hardest place to get a result, but we pushed Pirates hard last season, so we have every intention of doing the same this year.

“Retaining the core of our side from last season was really important. The connection between our riders and the supporters was clear to see, so we couldn’t be happier with the squad we have in place.

“We have unfinished business from the autumn and I know the boys are determined to make a success of this year. Friday will be a good indicator of what can be achieved between now and the end of the season.”

Tapes-up at Wimborne Road on Friday is at 7.30pm.

Monarch Cheetahs: Sam Masters, Henry Atkins, Cameron Heeps, Jordan Jenkins, Scott Nicholls, Luke Killeen, Ashton Boughen.

Poole Pirates: Richard Lawson, Tobias Thomsen, Tom Brennan, Zach Cook, Ben Cook, Sam Hagon, Max Perry.