Chargers open title defence at Armadale

Oxford Chargers recorded a 57-32 victory over the Stellar Monarchs Academy last season and went on to win the National Development League and they start their title defence at Armadale on Friday (7.30pm).

Both teams are substantially changed from last season but one rider who is expected to star is the talented young Australian Luke Killeen.

Chargers also include Jody Scott and Ashton Vale who have come through the British Youth system, plus Senna Summers, the son of former Monarchs’ rider Aaron Summers.

It is the first home outing for the Monarchs’ Academy with their new-look heat leader trio of Connor Coles, Sam McGurk and Max Perry and Coles captains the Academy.

He said: ” I need to lead by example so I will make sure I am performing. I feel this will be a good year. We have a good team.”

Former Academy rider Alex Spooner, who had intended lining up for Oxford, is not fit to resume after injuries sustained last season at the West Lothian track.

Friday’s match will be live streamed. Details on www.edinburghmonarchs.co.uk.

STELLAR MONARCHS ACADEMY: Connor Coles, Mason Watson, Sa m McGurk, Dayle Wood, Max Perry, Kyran Lyden, Mark Parker.

REAL MINI COMPANY CHARGERS: Luke Killeen, Lee Harrison, Jason Garrad, Jacob Clouting, Jody Scott, Senna Summers, Ashton Vale.

PICTURE: Action at Armadale featuring Edinburgh Monarchs from our picture library