Match previews – Edinburgh v Middlesbrough
The Middlesbrough Tigers face a fascinating double-header this weekend as they take on Edinburgh Academy twice in the space of just 24 hours.
The Tigers first head north to Armadale on Friday evening before returning to Teesside on Saturday night for the return fixture at the ECCO Arena.
There is extra motivation for the Tigers, who will be looking to finally get the monkey off their backs and record a first victory over their Scottish rivals after Edinburgh have won all four previous meetings between the sides.
Predicting the outcome of these two clashes is far from straightforward. Several riders remain relatively unknown quantities, with some new to National Development League racing, some making their debuts at the respective circuits and others returning after spells away from the sport.
Edinburgh’s James Shanes, who has recently impressed in non-league meetings, and Tigers newcomer Alex Spooner, who replaces retired Kai Ward, are both returning after lengthy absences from racing. Meanwhile Anika Loftus, Ben Whalley, and Harry Sadler are all set for their first taste of Armadale.
The Academy possess a strong spearhead in Jordy Loftus, Dayle Wood, and James Shanes, particularly on Friday when the Tigers will be without Nathan Ablitt, who is on Championship duty with Scunthorpe, Seth Norman deputises.
However, Middlesbrough may have the edge in overall strength throughout the team, while Saturday’s home meeting receives a further boost with Ablitt returning to the line-up.
The tight and technical nature of Armadale could favour the hosts in Friday’s encounter, whereas the more open ECCO Arena may suit the Tigers better on Saturday night.
The performances of the highly promising Charlie Southwick could also prove pivotal across both meetings.
One thing is certain — with two teams eager to make their mark, these meetings have all the ingredients for a pair of thrilling contests.
Two meetings. Twenty-four hours. One big weekend for the Tigers.
📍 Friday – Armadale Stadium | 7:30pm
📍 Saturday – ECCO Arena | 7:30pm
Edinburgh: Jordy Loftus, Jamie Halder, Connor Coles r/r, James Shanes, Dayle Wood, Ben Whalley, Anika Loftus
Middlesbrough (Friday): Ace Pijper, Alex Spooner, Jade Mudgway, Stene Pijper, Seth Norman (G), Harry Sadler, Charlie Southwick
Middlesbrough (Saturday): Ace Pijper, Alex Spooner, Jade Mudgway, Stene Pijper, Nathan Ablitt, Harry Sadler, Charlie Southwick