PREVIEW: LEICESTER v EASTBOURNE (NDL)

LEICESTER launch their National Development League title defence with a home clash against Eastbourne tonight (Wednesday).

It’s a big night as the meeting also marks the welcome return of supporters to the Paul Chapman & Sons Arena after a 19-month absence, whilst the visitors appear for the first time back at this level branded as the Seagulls.

Leicester operate rider-replacement for the injured Jamie Halder and have James Chattin guesting for Ben Trigger who turns 15 later this month – whilst Eastbourne have Jake Knight making his comeback to racing in the No.1 berth.

Lion Cubs boss Dave Howard said: “The sides have been built rather differently, but Eastbourne look to be strong opposition and are one of the pre-season favourites for the league, so it will be a good start to have.

“It’s been a long time with no speedway, so my message to the fans is to come back and see the action! We’ll put on the best show we can and look for those points to give us a good start to the season.”

Eastbourne manager Will Pottinger said: “There’s no reason why we cannot do well this year and challenge for the title. We will be very focussed at Leicester on getting a result.”

LEICESTER: Joe Lawlor, Jamie Halder r/r, Joe Thompson, Tom Spencer, Dan Thompson, Kai Ward, James Chattin.
EASTBOURNE: Jake Knight, Connor King, Chad Wirtzfeld, Richard Andrews, Henry Atkins, Nick Laurence, Nathan Ablitt.