MATCH PREVIEW: REDCAR AGILIA BEARS vs EDINBURGH MONARCHS

KNOCK-OUT CUP | 1ST LEG | ECCO ARENA | FRIDAY NIGHT

The Agilia Bears turn their attention to Knock-Out Cup action tonight as they host Edinburgh Monarchs in the first leg at the ECCO Arena (7:30pm).

Over a month into the season, form across the league is still taking shape — something Bears boss Gavin Parr believes makes early comparisons difficult.

“It’s still early days and there’s a bit of an imbalance with some riders having had plenty of meetings and others barely being on a bike,” said Parr.
“Even our lads are a little bit up and down at the moment — it’s just about getting the rhythm going, and the early season weather hasn’t helped.”

Redcar have had four outings so far, mainly in BSN Series action, while Edinburgh have only raced once as a team due to weather postponements — although several of their riders have been active elsewhere.

The Bears’ campaign was dealt a major blow with the loss of skipper Charles Wright through injury, but the swift signing of Danish international Nicolai Klindt has proved inspired. Klindt has top scored in each of his appearances so far and will again be key to Redcar’s chances.

Parr is well aware of the threat posed by the visitors:
“Dan Thompson is riding on the crest of a wave at the moment and could be the next big thing in British speedway, while Justin Sedgmen is a former Bear who always goes well around our track.”

Thompson arrives in top form after winning last month’s Ben Fund Bonanza, while Sedgmen’s gating ability makes him a serious danger. With additional strength from Paco Castagna, the Monarchs have the tools to make this a tough first leg.

With the return fixture scheduled for next Friday in Edinburgh, the Bears will be keen to build a strong advantage on home shale before the trip north.

Cup racing under the lights — it all starts tonight.

Redcar: Nicolai Klindt, Ace Pijper, Jordan Jenkins, Jason Edwards, Jake Allen, Jake Mulford, Jody Scott

Edinburgh : Dan Thompson, Jonatan Grahn, Justin Sedgmen, Paco Castagna, Kye Thomson, Mitchell Cluff, Jordy Loftus