PREVIEW: OXFORD v STEELERS (WSRA NDL)

OXFORD bid to maintain their advantage at the top of the WSRA National Development League when they host the Steelers at Cowley today (Sunday).

The home side are five points clear at the top of the table and will be champions if they win their final three matches, although they face a major challenge for the aggregate point as their sole defeat this season was 59-31 in the reverse fixture at Scunthorpe.

With skipper Jody Scott unwell and reserve Arran Butcher injured, Dayle Wood and Jordy Loftus come in to guest for the Chargers, whilst the Steelers use rider replacement for the injured Mickie Simpson, and Mark Parker stands in for Jamie Etherington.

Oxford boss Peter Schroeck said: “Progression is the main aim at this level of speedway, as it should be, and we don’t put any pressure on the lads. But, at the same time, the boys are competitive and they do want to win.

“Of course, I’d love to see the lads win the championship – which would be our second title success in three seasons at this level – but all we can do is take it one meeting at a time, starting with the home meeting against the Steelers.”

OXFORD: Dayle Wood, Senna Summers, Jacob Clouting, Ashton Vale, Darryl Ritchings, Jordy Loftus, Max Broadhurst.

STEELERS: Luke Harrison, Mickie Simpson R/R, Mark Parker, Vinnie Foord, Ben Morley, Luke Harris, Sam Woods.

SCB Referee: Dave Watters