WINNING START FOR LION CUBS

LEICESTER made a winning start to their WSRA National Development League campaign by overcoming Middlesbrough 53-37 on Sunday.

The Lion Cubs were the stronger all-round team and new signing Freddy Hodder went close to a maximum on his debut.

Hodder won his first four rides but was then on the receiving end of a 5-1 in Heat 15 as Ace Pijper and Nathan Ablitt collected a late consolation for the Tigers.

Ben Morley, with 10+1, was also in double figures for the home side along with Hodder on 13, and youngster Ryan Ingram picked up 9+1.

Ablitt (11+1), Pijper (11) and reserve Charlie Southwick (10) dominated the Tigers’ scoring with heat leader Ben Trigger absent from the meeting.

Leicester manager Jen Crossland said: “It was an absolutely great team performance, and I loved the atmosphere in the pits as well.

“There are such a good bunch so I’m chuffed for them with the result, but I did say they were good!

“I’m gutted for Freddy not getting his maximum, but he did insist on gate four, that’s all I’m going to say!”

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Photo credit: STEVE DIXON