REPORT: Last heat drama earns Chargers a timely win over Belle Vue Colts

Oxford Chargers leapfrogged Belle Vue Colts into third in the National Development League table on Wednesday night after securing an entertaining 48-41 victory at Oxford Stadium.

Missing fans’ favourite Nathan Stoneman, Chargers denied their Manchester rivals any league points after a heat 15 maximum from Henry Atkins and Jordan Jenkins confirmed a seven-point win.

It was possible for Colts to win the meeting with just one heat remaining. The National Speedway Stadium outfit staged a brave response to Chargers’ eye-catching 5-1s recorded in heats one and two which opened up an early eight-point advantage.

Colts’ number one Jack Smith and guest Adam Roynon were required to bring home a maximum of their own to turn the meeting on its head at the death. But a mechanical failure for Roynon put pay to any slim hopes the visitors had of pinching a win before the race started.

Man of the moment Atkins raced to his fourth race win of the night while Jenkins followed him home to record 12+2 on the night from his six rides.

There were paid race wins too for Jody Scott, Arran Butcher and Jacob Clouting. Sam Hagon meanwhile weighed in with an important haul of six points from five rides.

Chargers resume their National Development League campaign at home to Mildenhall Fen Tigers on Wednesday, August 24.

Oxford Chargers: Jordan Jenkins 12+2, Henry Atkins 15+1, Sam Hagon 6, Jody Scott 8+1, Nathan Stoneman R/R, Arran Butcher 5+2, Jacob Clouting 2+1.

Belle Vue Colts: Jack Smith 11+1, Harry McGurk R/R, Adam Roynon 14, Sam McGurk 0, Jake Mulford 6, Archie Freeman 4, Freddy Holder 6+3.