There will be no under 21 championship glory for Cheetahs youngster Andrew Appleton after he failed to qualify in the opening round at Monmore Green on Monday.

Reflecting on a poor night's racing, he said: "It just wasn't my night. I had gate four twice and just couldn't get out."

On a more positive note, the Berkshire-based teenager flew out to Sweden yesterday to meet up with his new club Gettingarna. It will be his first season riding abroad and he got the team slot after being recommended by Reading's Phil Morris.

Appleton admitted he has found the switch from Premier League to Elite League very tough.

"I am finding it very hard to get to grips with the Elite, but I don't have any regrets about making the move. I am under no pressure from anybody and Oxford's a great set-up to be involved with. There's a really good team spirit and the senior riders are always willing to try and help."