ADVANTAGE TIGERS IN CUP CLASH

GLASGOW established a handy 12-point lead over Oxford with a 51-39 win in the first leg of their Cab Direct KO Cup tie at Ashfield.

The Cheetahs were actually leading on the night after seven races, but the Tigers recorded three 5-1s in a five-race spell to turn the meeting and take the edge in the contest.

That was despite the loss of reserve Ace Pijper with a suspected broken wrist, whilst guest Jack Smith proved a trump card with 10+2 in support of captain Chris Harris with 11+1.

Scott Nicholls (10+1) and Sam Masters (10) both hit double figures for the Cheetahs, who will look to respond at Cowley on Wednesday.

Glasgow boss Cami Brown said: “It was looking difficult early on when we lost Ace. But Jack was sensational and all the boys stepped up their game to put Oxford under so much pressure. 

“They are a very good side but we have managed to deliver something to defend at their place on Wednesday.

“To be honest I’ve never seen Jack ride that well. He was the match winner and James Pearson also produced two brilliant 5-1s as well and Leon Flint was excellent. It was a really gutsy performance.”

Nicholls said: “Glasgow are very strong around here. We had a couple of mechanical issues, but overall we can have no complaints, because the best team on the night won.

“We’ve left ourselves with a slightly bigger hill to climb than we’d liked for the second leg at Oxford next week, but it’s still very much within our reach.”

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Photo credit: IAN ADAM