LEICESTER have declared their riding order for the big Easter Monday clashes with Belle Vue – and there will be a surprise for those who attended press and practice day!
The Watling JCB Lions open their Knockout Cup campaign with a trip to Manchester at midday on April 6, before hosting the Aces in the return fixture at the Hydroscand Arena, Beaumont Park at 7.30pm.
Boss Stewart Dickson has elected to pair Dan Thompson with Ryan Douglas in the opening heat combination, with Thompson riding in the No.2 position, whilst Kyle Howarth retains the No.4 slot he held last year and will team up with Nick Morris.
Dickson explained: “I know people will have seen the numbers on Thursday when Kyle had 2 and Dan had 4, and they will have been talking about it, which doesn’t do any harm!
“We had a chat amongst ourselves, and Dan actually said he wants to ride at No.2 and Kyle was happy at No.4.
“Kyle is okay riding with Nick, he knows what Nick is going to do, and Nick said it didn’t bother him where he rides, but Dan was very keen on No.2.
“In previous seasons we’ve had the likes of (Richard) Lawson and (Luke) Becker there, and I do like to be strong in that position.
“It’s not set in stone, and if I feel it’s not working I can always change it, but this is how we’re going to go on Monday and we’ll see how it works out.”
Opponents Belle Vue are set to be without German racer Norick Blodorn after a crash earlier this week at the National Speedway Stadium. The Aces can use either a guest or rider replacement to cover for him.
LIONS STARTING LINE-UP
1 Ryan Douglas
2 Dan Thompson
3 Nick Morris
4 Kyle Howarth
5 Sam Masters
6 Drew Kemp
7 Joe Thompson
