Sheffield speedway: Tigers ready to launch title defence against power-house Peterborough

They face a powerful Peterborough side who include Scott Nicholls, one of the most successful British riders over the last 20 years.

Panthers pulled off a stunning win at Ipswich last week and are sure to revel in the wide open spaces of Sheffield.

Tigers co-promoter Damien Bates said: “Just because we nearly hit 60 past Newcastle in the Shield last week it doesn’t mean we’re going to roll teams over easily.

“Simon Stead will be telling our boys to stay focussed on the job in hand and take each meeting as it comes.

“Peterborough are a strong side who will test us because they have riders who will feel comfortable around our track, which is similar to their own.

“It’s big, wide and fast and that’s what they like. I’m expecting some close racing which should be great for the supporters.”

Bates admits he’s encouraged by the early signs of the team despite a lack of action with only one meeting raced.

“I think we have another good side even though we haven’t been able to bring Josh Grajczonek back,” he said.

“I know there’s a great team spirit and we’re all working for each other and Simon has done a good job with the boys.

“Hopefully we’ll see a good crowd against Peterborough and we can get three points on the board but we’ll have to work hard for it.

“I’m a big fan of Scott Nicholls, especially after he helped us out as a guest rider last year against his local club Ipswich and even though he’s in opposition tomorrow he’ll be given a warm welcome from the Sheffield fans.”

Tigers are set to be unchanged with Josh Bates still out and waiting for a further update on his back.