PREVIEW: BELLE VUE v SHEFFIELD (PO SF)

BELLE Vue will again operate rider-replacement for Brady Kurtz in the second leg of their play-off semi-final against Sheffield tonight (Thursday).Kurtz was injured in last weekend’s Czech Golden Helmet and missed the Aces’ 50-40 win at Owlerton on Monday which leaves them in a strong position to reach the Grand Final.

But boss Mark Lemon is keen to stress there is still a job to do, with the Tigers having shown their strength on the road in an impressive recent victory at Peterborough.

Lemon said: “Bringing a 10-point lead into this meeting is fantastic but there are no guarantees. I know it, the boys know it but there is a sense of belief within the team.

“It’s still only half-time and we need to stay focused, keep a level head and continue the motivation from Monday’s result rolling into Thursday.

“Sheffield are not to be underestimated. They do have some big hitters in their side, and we need to be prepared for whatever challenge they bring.”

Tigers manager Simon Stead said: “We have riders who really enjoy riding the Belle Vue track. I’m realistic enough to admit we were all disappointed to lose the home leg on Monday, but we have to regroup and go again.

“A couple of 5-1 heat wins in the early stages could make all the difference and when you look at riders like Jack Holder and Adam Ellis, they love riding around there. Adam won the British title there and that really tells you all you need to know.

“I’m looking forward to it and so are the lads. I know we are underdogs, but we’ll go there to try and spring a surprise.”

BELLE VUE: Dan Bewley, Richie Worrall, Steve Worrall, Charles Wright, Brady Kurtz R/R, Tom Brennan, Jye Etheridge.
SHEFFIELD: Jack Holder, Troy Batchelor, Kyle Howarth, Josh Pickering, Adam Ellis, Danyon Hume, Connor Mountain.