PREVIEW: BELLE VUE v OXFORD (NDL)
BELLE Vue put their impressive home record on the line when they take on Oxford in the National Development League tonight (Friday).
The Colts were unbeaten at the National Speedway Stadium last season and kicked off 2023 with a thumping win over Berwick – but the Chargers are also fired up after defeating champions Leicester at Cowley on Wednesday.
The home side are forced into one change with Paul Bowen ruled out due to jury service, and Jack Shimelt comes in to guest at reserve.
Colts co-boss Graham Goodwin said: “Oxford are a highly fancied team this year and Friday’s main event will present us with our toughest test of the season so far.
“Three of the Chargers riders also double up in the club’s Championship team, and with nearly half the Cheetahs racing you can see why we’re expecting a close encounter!
“But with the way the boys rode last time out and the way they handled themselves at Edinburgh we have every confidence in them to do a fantastic job.”
Chargers boss Peter Schroeck said: “Wednesday was a great result for us in difficult conditions. But that’s history now and we’ve got to look forward to what will be a tough meeting in Manchester against Belle Vue.
“We’ve got to be on our guard and stick to the basics by avoiding last places and letting the boys enjoy their racing. Even at this early stage, there’s a great feeling of belief amongst this team that we can put some serious pressure on the top teams this year.
“I like the spirit in the camp, and we’ll travel north full of confidence.”
BELLE VUE: Jack Smith, Luke Muff, Sam Hagon, Matt Marson, James Pearson, Jack Shimelt, Freddy Hodder.
OXFORD: Jordan Jenkins, Jacob Clouting, Henry Atkins, Jody Scott, Ryan Kinsley, Luke Killeen, Jacob Fellows.
