Glasgow Tigers v Oxford Cheetahs

Report

GLASGOW secured their place in the Cab Direct Championship play-offs with a 55-35 win over Oxford at Ashfield.

And the in-form Tigers are now targeting the top of the table as they trail leaders Poole by just one point, with two matches in hand.

Skipper Chris Harris scored 13+1 from five rides and was involved in three stunning races with opposite number Sam Masters, who beat him in Heat 10 before Harris hit back to overcome the Cheetahs captain from the back in Heats 13 and 15.

Kyle Howarth added 12+1 on his return to the side with Dan Thompson and Villads Nagel both scoring paid 11, whilst Masters’ (12) main support came from reserve Luke Killeen with 9+1 on a day which saw the visitors’ top four hopes extinguished.

Tigers manager Cami Brown said: “We look like a compact unit right now, the top five are super-solid. All-in-all it was a really good, business-like display and we are looking stronger every meeting.

“Chris was epic once again with outstanding races with Sam Masters. This track serves up sensational entertainment every week. Full credit to the track staff for delivering such a great circuit.

“I’m delighted we’ve closed the gap on Poole at the top. But we now have two huge fixtures at Edinburgh and Workington on Friday and Saturday.”

Oxford boss Peter Schroeck said: “No excuses – we were beaten by the better team. Glasgow are a very good side, who could end the season as the league champions.

“We put up a good fight and that’s all we can do. I’m proud of the effort from the boys, who kept going, and Mitch (McDiarmid) and Luke deserved to take a 5-1 in Heat 14. Also a big thank to Sam Hagon for accepting the guest booking and getting stuck in.”

GLASGOW 55: Chris Harris 13+1, Kyle Howarth 12+1, Dan Thompson 10+1, Villads Nagel 9+2, Leon Flint 6+1, Freddy Hodder 3+1, Max Perry 2.
OXFORD 35: Sam Masters 12, Luke Killeen 9+1, Jordan Jenkins 4+1, Sam Hagon 3+1, Mitch McDiarmid 3, Jonas Knudsen 2+2, Cameron Heeps 2.
Glasgow win the aggregate point.

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Photo credit: TAYLOR LANNING