PREVIEW: Schroeck warns Cheetahs against complacency ahead of Bandits’ visit

The Monarch Oxford Cheetahs reach the halfway point of their Cab Direct Championship campaign on Wednesday evening when entertaining Berwick Bandits at Oxford Stadium.

Fresh from a dramatic Super Heat win away to Scunthorpe Scorpions on Friday, Cheetahs enter the tie in strong spirits after ending June unbeaten with six wins recorded in as many matches.

Bandits’ visit is being treated with caution, though. The Northumberland side upset the odds one year ago when registering a comfortable 40-50 win at Sandy Lane during their one league visit to OX4 since the completion of Oxford Stadium’s regeneration.

Cheetahs’ Team Manager Peter Schroeck said he and his riders are determined to reverse that form and further solidify the team’s position within the division’s six-team play-off frame.

“Berwick caught us napping last year and we simply can’t afford to do that on Wednesday,” said Schroeck. “From one to seven, Bandits are packed with proven quality and experience at this level.

“I don’t for one moment believe their current position in the table reflects their true potential and they still have fixtures to catch-up on so Wednesday will be a challenge from the off.

“I’ve been really impressed with the mentality of the Cheetahs squad this season. Everyone has stuck with each other which has contributed to a great atmosphere in the pits and on the terraces.

“What we can’t do is allow a good June to go to our heads and bring complacency into our game. We had a week’s break from home action so as a team we’re looking forward to getting back out there and hopefully doing the business in front of our supporters who have been outstanding this year.”

Tapes-up at Oxford Stadium on Wednesday night is at 7.30pm with doors opening at 6pm. Tickets are available to purchase via the club website and ALL U16s are eligible for free entry.

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

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

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