Workington Comets take on reigning League, Knockout Cup and Pairs champions Leicester Lion Cubs this afternoon at Northside (3pm).
It’s a big ask as they try to get back to winning ways after last week’s 49-41 defeat to Mildenhall Fen Tigers.
Leicester are currently sitting one point behind the Comets in the National Development League table but both have three matches in hand of the three teams bat the top.
Comets team boss, James Denham is looking for his side to hit back after the disappointment of last Saturday’s first defeat.
He said: “It was a shock to everyone but the boys have never let their heads drop and are determined to bounce back.
“The league is the strongest it’s been for a number of years and it will prove to be another tough test but I’m confident that the lads will pull together and get a result.
“The new averages will come into effect for some of the team including Elliot Kelly who deservedly moves into the main body of the team.
“Unfortunately he will miss today’s fixture due to the concussion he suffered in a fall last week.
“Harry McGurk has had a tough start to the season and will move into a reserve berth but I’m sure he won’t be there for long as it’s just a matter of time before it clicks for him and we see what he’s capable of.”
The Comets will use rider replacement for Kelly who is expected to be ready to return to action next week-end.
Luke Harrison provided a ray of sunshine for the Comets and top scored last weekend scoring 12+1 on his return and proved that despite his pre-season injuries, he is now fit and ready to race.
Two of the Comets were in championship action last night and were both in winning team performances.
But both number one Connor Bailey and his regular race partner Ace Pijper hit the deck in their respective matches.
Bailey fell and was excluded in his second ride for Redcar in their big 57-33 win over Berwick Bandits. He had finished second in the reserves race and after his fall responded with two third places for a four point haul on the night, plus a bonus.
Pijper fell in the opening reserve race at Edinburgh where his Glasgow side were 51-39 winners at Edinburgh. The Comets youngster failed to score in his two subsequent outings.
Former Comets rider Charles Wright continued his good start to the season by scoring 11 points (with three wins) for Redcar.
