PREVIEW: OXFORD v POOLE (BSN SERIES)

OXFORD and Poole resume rivalries after contesting major silverware in 2024 when they meet in the BSN Series opener at Cowley tonight (Wednesday).

The Pirates competed the Treble last year with two of their Final victories coming at the expense of the Cheetahs, in meetings which provided a host of talking points.

Oxford made a strong start to the new campaign with a 20-point win over Scunthorpe last week, and they declare a full-strength side with Western Australian State Champion Mitch McDiarmid now available to make his debut.

The Pirates show four changes compared to last season with Anders Rowe and Paul Starke making their returns to the club, whilst Lewis Kerr and Matt Marson are also in.

Oxford manager Peter Schroeck said: “The meeting is a test for the Cheetahs. The Pirates have a very professional set-up and you can’t deny their success over the years. To me, we’re going to approach the meeting exactly as we did last week, because Scunthorpe aren’t a bad team either.

“But, at the same time, we’re all aware of the rivalry between Oxford and Poole, especially after how last season ended.

“It’s an eagerly anticipated clash, and, of course, we’d love to get a little slice of revenge over Pirates, as well as putting out a statement to the rest of the Cab Direct Championship.”

Poole promoter Dan Ford said: “It’s always exciting to get the season started and opening up against Oxford, especially after last year’s unforgettable Finals, sets the tone perfectly.

“We know Wednesday’s trip won’t be easy; they have already hit the ground running this year and we will need to be sharp. Then all eyes are firmly on the return leg at Wimborne Road on Good Friday.”

OXFORD: Sam Masters, Jonas Knudsen, Jordan Jenkins, Dan Gilkes, Cameron Heeps, Mitch McDiarmid, Luke Killeen.

POOLE: Richard Lawson, Tobias Thomsen, Anders Rowe, Zach Cook, Lewis Kerr, Paul Starke, Matt Marson.

SCB Referee: Seth Perkin

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