Craven Shield victory target for Oxford.

Oxford Cheetahs head South to Eastbourne this Friday knowing that a win would see them through to this years Craven Shield Final. But they'll be without Lukas Dryml however, who has been recalled by the Czech federation and have called on the services of Sam Ermolenko to replace Brian Andersen, it will be rider replacement for Lukas Dryml.

A disappointed Vanessa Purchase has revealed that the planned challenge matches with Reading will not now be able to take place: "Both Pat Bliss and ourselves were keen to run these matches but due to various rider commitments and the lateness into the season it was just not practical to do so".

Promoter Steve Purchase attended the Elite League promoters meeting at Rugby on Tuesday, and is cautiously optimistic regarding the Cheetahs future: "This was a very open and frank meeting although there were no firm decisions made, probably the best Elite League meeting I have attended" was
his summary of events.

"It was also very thought provoking and has given all of the promoters food for thought on the future of not only the Elite League but British Speedway in general. Refreshingly there seemed to be general agreement that a true three tier league structure, with rider progression/mobility between the leagues, is essential for the long-term health of British Speedway" he continued.

A further meeting is to be held during November, a couple of weeks prior to the annual conference which is when the final decisions will be made and the future of Oxford Speedway confirmed. Whilst Purchase remains firmly of the view that he cannot run another season with the current Elite League
conditions he has indicated that given a workable set up he would wish to remain in the top flight of British Speedway.