PREVIEW: EDINBURGH v REDCAR (Champ)

EDINBURGH are anticipating a tough test from Redcar when the sides meet in an attractive contest at Armadale tonight (Friday).

Both are racing their opening Championship match with Jake Allen making his debut for the Bears – who also include James Sarjeant, originally lined up to race for the Monarchs this season prior to winter changes to their lower-order.

Joe Lawlor makes his first appearance for the hosts having initially been part of Redcar’s intended 2020 line-up, along with 2019 Bears rider Nathan Greaves, with Australian Kye Thomson the third home debutant.

Bears boss Jade Mudgway said: “It was a massive blow when we couldn’t bring the 2020 side back to Redcar, but I think we have just as good, if not better, a side this year.

“It has been an extremely hard winter, and it has taken a lot of patience to bring this side to the Media Prima Arena. I hope the fans are as excited as I am.”

Edinburgh chief Alex Harkess said: “I enjoy Redcar matches here, I look forward to their visits.

“I think their team has come out stronger than the one they originally envisaged having, and I agree with them saying it’s one of the strongest they have had. Good on them.”