Title-chasing JT/Fox Oxford Cheetahs must get back into the habit of winning before their vital Elite League clashes and there is no better place to start than against Eastbourne Eagles in their Craven Shield clash at Oxford Stadium tonight (Fri, 7.30).

With no sign of a new rider, Lukas Dryml returns after 'flu to bolster the Cheetahs attack and comes in at No 2 to partner Brian Andersen.

Cheetahs, out of the running in the Shield, will be seeking revenge after the Eagles put a big dent in Oxford's title hopes with victory here in August.

It will be former Cheetahs' favourite Martin Dugard's swansong at Oxford as last year's British Grand Prix winner retires at the end of the season.

Arguably one of the finest riders ever to grace a Cheetahs jacket, Dugard is one of the best exponents of the Cowley track and will be seeking to go out with a bang.

Much will depend on the form of Lukas Dryml and his brother Ales at reserve. They will be looking for confidence-boosting rides as they head for the Czech Golden Helmet in Pardubice on Sunday along with Cheetahs skipper Steve Johnston.

There will never be a better time for Andrew Appleton to confirm his place for next year, and fans can see him in action at the British Masters at Abingdon on Sunday.

Cheetahs must put that aside and really show some form if they are to see off Poole for the Elite title.

The Pirates warmed up nicely for their vital clash at Peterborough tonight with a 57-33 hammering of Eastbourne on Wednesday, while Ipswich, Cheetahs' opponents next Tuesday, were beaten 46-44 at home by King's Lynn.

**Oxford: Andersen, L Dryml, Wiltshire, Johnston, Adams, Appleton, A Dryml.

Eastbourne: Dugard, Svab, Norris, Povazhny, Barker, Werner, Kylmakorpi.