SHEFFIELD boss Simon Stead believes it’s a “mouthwatering prospect” to face Belle Vue.
The Tigers hope it’s third time lucky as they bid to overhaul an eight-point deficit against the ATPI Aces in the Knockout Cup quarter-final tonight (7.30pm).
Having seen Kyle Howarth’s testimonial and the Premiership opener against Oxford washed out they are keen to open the Owlerton season after battling to stay in the tie in Monday’s first leg.
Despite trailing 41-49, and two less than convincing performances at Oxford and Birmingham, manager Simon Stead is confident that last year’s beaten finalists will respond to home comforts.
“These War of the Roses clashes are always something special,” he said.
“They throw up some real competitive action and I have no doubt that it will be the case again on Thursday.
“With just eight points separating us, it’s one of those deficits that we know we’re more than capable of overturning at home.
“Having said that, Belle Vue will arrive feeling they can hold on - so it really is a mouthwatering prospect.”
Both sides are unchanged and at full strength. The winners of the tie will face King’s Lynn in the semi-finals.
Sheffield: Jack Holder, Kyle Howarth, Chris Holder, Josh Pickering, Tai Woffinden, Jason Edwards, Dan Gilkes
Belle Vue: Brady Kurtz, Norick Blodorn, Jaimon Lidsey, Ben Cook, Dan Bewley, Connor Mountain, Connor Bailey.
Words by George Dodds.
Images by Taylor Lanning.