Sunday, October 20, 2024
OXFORD SPEEDWAY
Cheetahs

PREVIEW: Championship leading Cheetahs cautiously optimistic ahead of Edinburgh visit

SRFortitude

The Monarch Oxford Cheetahs continue their Cab Direct Championship campaign on Wednesday at Oxford Stadium when hosting Edinburgh Monarchs (7.30pm).

The Cheetahs will enter the meeting unbeaten in the Cab Direct Championship after securing a nine-point lead last week following their victory over the Berwick Bandits.

As they pass the halfway mark, the Cheetahs remain determined in their championship campaign, but team boss Peter Schroeck isn’t taking their lead for granted.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our Championship campaign,” said Schroeck.

“But the season is only half complete and we all know speedway has a tendency to turn the formbook on its head so while we can enjoy the good times it’s essential, we stay grounded.

“Berwick pushed us hard last week and to see three 5-1s back-to-back in the concluding races proved to me this team has character.

“Our performance against Edinburgh in the KO Cup earlier this season counts for nothing. The scores are reset and first base is to win, from there we can assess the scores and look to build a lead we can defend for the aggregate point.

“The supporters have been outstanding this season. I truly believe we are the feel-good story in British speedway right now and the buzz on Wednesday nights is something people want to be a part of.

“Keep it coming, because the numbers we’re welcoming through the doors proves this sport has a future in not only Oxford, but across the UK.”

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

Monarch Oxford Cheetahs: Sam Masters, Lewis Kerr R/R, Henry Atkins, Jordan Jenkins, Scott Nicholls, Cameron Heeps, Ryan Kinsley, Jody Scott (No 8).

Edinburgh Stellar Monarchs: Josh Pickering, Bastian Borke, Kye Thompson, Paco Castagna R/R, Craig Cook, Dayle Wood, Lasse Fredriksen.

TEAM UPDATE: Lewis Kerr suffered a collarbone injury at Sheffield on Monday and will not be fit for Oxford vs Edinburgh on Wednesday. Six Championship clubs are already in action, so Monarch Cheetahs will use the rider replacement facility. Oxford Charger Jody Scott comes in at No 8.