POSITIVE START FOR CHARGERS

OXFORD opened their National Development League campaign with a hard-fought 50-39 win over champions Leicester at Cowley.

Reserve Luke Killeen starred for the Chargers with 13+1 whilst skipper Jordan Jenkins (12) had four wins and a fall on the last bend of Heat 6 when chasing Lion Cubs skipper Joe Thompson.

New signing Ryan Kinsley picked up 10+1 for the home side whilst the Cubs led at the halfway stage but fell away in the second half, although winter signing Ashton Boughen impressed with 8+2 in a meeting which went ahead despite a heavy downpour an hour before start time.

Oxford boss Peter Schroeck said: “Leicester are a solid team capable of being a big player at the end of the season, so tonight was a good indicator that we’re heading in the right direction.

“It’s important we use our home track knowledge to our advantage as the Chargers did last season, and tonight that happened. We’re very pleased but at the same time remain focused ahead of two big away meetings before the close of the week.”

Cubs boss Dave Howard said: “It was a difficult night on a difficult track after the heavy shower.

“Everybody gave it their all, and looking at the aggregate situation we have confidence in what we can do on our home track. It was just one of those nights in the last few heats.”

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