PREVIEW: LEICESTER v OXFORD (NDLPO SF)

LEICESTER trail Oxford by two points as the sides meet at the Paul Chapman & Sons Arena tonight (Saturday) in the second leg of their NDL play-off semi-final.

The Lion Cubs defend a 100 per cent home record but expect a tough battle against the Chargers, who remain determined to reach the Grand Final.

The visitors have called up Adam Roynon to guest for Sam Hagon, who was injured in Heat 15 of the home leg, and continue to use unattached youngster Ashton Boughen in place of Arran Butcher at reserve.

Lion Cubs boss Dave Howard said: “It’s going to be a tough second leg, but the position we have to start from on our home track puts in a good place.

“We’ve still got to be on the ball in every race on Saturday to finish the job.”

Chargers manager Peter Schroeck said: “Ashton is looking forward to riding for us again. He was fantastic for us at Oxford. His winning time in Heat 2 wasn’t bettered until Heat 10, while his 5-1 with Jody (Scott) in Heat 14 could be so important in the momentum over the course of the two legs.

“I’ve done a lot of training with Ashton up at Leicester, so he can’t wait to ride for us there on Saturday. I remain quietly confident about our chances.”

LEICESTER: Dan Thompson, Max Perry, Connor Coles, Tom Spencer, Joe Thompson, Vinnie Foord, Mickie Simpson.
OXFORD: Jordan Jenkins, Nathan Stoneman r/r, Adam Roynon, Jody Scott, Henry Atkins, Ashton Boughen, Jacob Clouting.