Leicester Lion Cubs v Mildenhall Fen Tigers

LEICESTER wrapped up the National Development League title with a 62-28 win over Mildenhall to complete a third-tier double for the second time in three seasons.

The Lion Cubs had already beaten the Fen Tigers to lift the KO Cup, and they secured their league success in Friday’s Grand Final at King’s Lynn having taken a 15-point lead into the meeting and with their opponents depleted by injuries.

The strength of Leicester’s developing riders was clear at the Adrian Flux Arena with 15-year-old Max Perry top-scoring with 11+4, whilst heat-leaders Dan and Joe Thompson both scored 11 and Tom Spencer added 10+3.

The Lion Cubs also included No.8 Max James for two rides, and he was unbeaten with 5+1 as they raced to an overall 114-65 aggregate triumph.

Captain Jason Edwards was the only regular Fen Tigers team member on track, and he scored 17 points, missing out only to Dan Thompson in a fine Heat 13 battle, with youngster Ashton Boughen the other race winner for the outgoing NDL champions.

Lion Cubs boss Dave Howard said: “The team spirit has been fantastic all year, everyone has been so together, even with the mechanics helping out and diving in when things go wrong.

“There’s so much togetherness in the team, and that spirt really helps. It’s just been a joy to be manager of them.

“The progression the riders have made as well, everyone has been great.”

NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE GRAND FINAL 2nd leg (at King’s Lynn)
LEICESTER 62: Max Perry 11+4, Dan Thompson 11, Joe Thompson 11, Tom Spencer 10+3, Vinnie Foord 7+3, Mickie Simpson 7+3, Max James 5+1, Connor Coles r/r.
MILDENHALL 28: Jason Edwards 17, Ashton Boughen 5, Tom Woolley 3, James Laker 2, Bailey Fellows 1, James Jessop 0, James Shanes r/r.
Leicester win 114-65 on aggregate

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Photo credit: DEREK LEADER