REPORT: Spires make a winning start!

Oxford Spires made a winning start to their Premiership campaign when beating Birmingham Brummies 47-43 in an entertaining season opener at Oxford Stadium.

Led by skipper Chris Harris, Spires were taken to the last race as Birmingham staged a second half comeback meaning the hosts needed to avoid a 5-1 reverse in Heat 15 to take the win.

A brave opening lap by Harris secured him second place, while Polish hero Maciej Janowski claimed third on the line after a well-timed final bend move to confirm a four-point win.

The shared heat delighted the packed terraces with supporters turning out in force despite the damp forecast.

Team Manager Peter Schroeck was thrilled with the turnout and praised the resilience of his team in the closing heats.

“Credit to both teams, Birmingham really put up a fight and failed to give in,” said Schroeck. “We had to dig deep but the boys showed that determination which is a great quality in any team.

“Conditions were as good as we could’ve wished for considering the weather. The track staff did a fantastic job preparing the surface and ensuring it could handle the forecast rain which arrived before the meeting.

“All in all, it was a positive night and we can look forward to Sheffield next week and another tough challenge.”

Speedway returns to Oxford Stadium on Thursday, March 21, when Oxford Spires host Sheffield Tigers in the Premiership. Tapes-up is at 7.30pm and U16s again go FREE!

Oxford Spires 47: Maciej Janowski 9+2, Charles Wright 5+1, Nicolai Klindt 4+1, Chris Harris 13, Rohan Tungate 5, Lewis Kerr 8+1, Ashton Boughen 3+1.

Birmingham Brummies: Vaclav Milik 1, Tom Brennan 5+1, Wiktor Lampart 5+1, Steve Worrall 11, Scott Nicholls 11+1, Zach Cook 7, Leon Flint 3.