Workington Comets’ number one Connor Bailey couldn’t prevent Redcar Bears from going under 47-43 at home to Oxford in Group B of the Cab Direct Championship play-offs.
Bailey scored seven and a bonus point while Comets youngster Luke Harrison scored two and a bonus from three rides at reserve.
With ex-Comet Charles Wright out injured, another ex-Workington rider Kyle Howarth deputised but only managed three and two bonus points.
The Bears dealt with conditions best in the early stages after a heavy downpour and moved into a 14-point lead after just six races – but the Cheetahs then hit back with an incredible hat-trick of 5-1s.
They kept their momentum and led by four points heading into the last race which was won by Danny King, but with partner Danyon Hume falling an away win was confirmed which could prove pivotal in the group.
Sam Masters (12+1) and Scott Nicholls (11+1) top scored for the Cheetahs with Danny King scoring 10+1 for the Bears and reserve Jason Edwards notched 10.
Redcar and Glasgow now have the pressure on as they go into Cab Direct Championship play-off action at Ashfield today (2pm).
Oxford’s win against the Bears on Teesside last night has given the Cheetahs control of Group B, following their 50-40 home victory over the Tigers last week.
It’s a first home meeting in the group for Glasgow, who may well need to win all of their remaining three matches and secure the aggregate point against Oxford in order to reach the Grand Final.
The Tigers again track Jack Smith at reserve for the injured Comet Ace Pijper, whilst the Bears have Justin Sedgmen guesting for Charles Wright and Luke Harrison again comes in at reserve.
Harrison will be representing the Comets tomorrow alongside Sam McGurk at the National Development League Riders Championship at Northside.ReplyReply allForward
