National League Speedway Roars Back to Sheffield as Junior Tigers Hit Owlerton
Sheffield, April 25, 2024 — National League Speedway makes a thrilling return to Sheffield tonight, marking a significant moment for local motorsport fans as the Autocraft Tiger Cubs kick off their junior season at Owlerton Stadium. This marks the first appearance of National League action in Sheffield in several years, generating considerable excitement among the city’s speedway enthusiasts.
The Autocraft Tiger Cubs, a promising development side forged from a collaboration between Sheffield and Scunthorpe, will face off against Middlesbrough in their opening fixture. The match promises to be a spectacle, showcasing some of the best young talent in the sport.
In addition to their home fixtures at Owlerton, the joint Sheffield-Scunthorpe team will host “home” meetings at Scunthorpe throughout the season. This dual-home arrangement reflects the team’s broader regional support and commitment to developing young riders.
Leading the charge for the Autocraft Tiger Cubs is former Sheffield reserve Jack Smith, who returns to the club where he previously competed in 2018. Smith, now a seasoned rider, is expected to bring skill and experience to the team. The lineup also features current Championship reserves Luke Harrison and Ace Pijper, who are anticipated to perform strongly. Pijper’s younger brother, Stene, will make his National Development League (NDL) debut as the team’s No. 7. Partnering with Stene at the reserve is Kean Dicken, the son of the well-known former Hull rider Lee Dicken. The squad is rounded out by Mickie Simpson and Sheldon Davies, who bring valuable experience to the team.
The team Manager expressed his enthusiasm for the season, stating, “Of course, I aim for us to win meetings and want the lads to experience that winning feeling. However, this league is about development, and as long as the boys are enjoying themselves and making progress, I’ll be satisfied. I’m here to support and guide them, and I hope they can have a lot of fun out there.”
Tonight’s fixture at Owlerton Stadium offers an accessible night out for fans, with admission set at just £15 for adults and concessions. Remarkably, all juniors aged 16 and under can enjoy the action free of charge. Although Season Tickets are not valid for National Development League fixtures, holders can still present them at the turnstiles to receive a complimentary 16-page programme. Gates open at 6 pm.
Supporters should note that the Carvery Restaurant and the Panorama Room will not be open for tonight’s fixture. However, seating will be available in the Lower Bar and Snack Bar.
The lineup for tonight’s match is as follows:
Sheffield Autocraft Tiger Cubs:
– Jack Smith
– Sheldon Davies
– Mickie Simpson
– Luke Harrison
– Ace Pijper
– Kean Dicken
– Stene Pijper
Middlesbrough:
– Jake Mulford
– Ben Rathbone
– Danny Phillips
– Jamie Halder
– Ben Trigger
– William Hocaniuk
– Kai Ward
The stage is set for an exciting evening of speedway racing as the Autocraft Tiger Cubs embark on their journey in the National Development League. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the team as they aim to make their mark on the season.
Joint Sheffield-Scunthorpe National Development League makes winning start to third-tier speedway season.
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