JT/FOX Oxford Cheetahs face a tough test against Eastbourne Eagles at Sandy Lane tonight (7.30pm) as they bid to reach the Elite League Knockout Cup semi-finals.

Cheetahs have not had the happiest of times in this competition over recent seasons, failing to progress beyond one round since 1997.

This year the team have been doing well in the Elite League, but a home and away cup tie against Eastbourne is certainly not the easiest of draws.

The Knockout Cup has slightly different rules which allow the top five of the team to be declared in any order.

And Cheetahs have switched round Brian Andersen and Todd Wiltshire.

Team manager Colin Meredith explained: "We have to get it right this weekend and we are determined to get back to winning ways.

"We have looked long and hard at the possible permutations for the team riding order for this week and I am sure that we have got it right."

Oxford have had two slip-ups recently, but with the pressure of league points being off, it is hoped that they can get back to winning ways.

Eastbourne are weakened following the injuries to Joe Screen and, despite picking up Stefan Andersson, the Eagles management are still looking to make further changes.

While Cheetahs are ideally placed to take advantage of this, it will certainly not be a walkover.

Alternative free car parking is available at Unipart.

HOW THEY LINE UP

Oxford: Brian Andersen, Lukas Dryml, Steve Johnston, Todd Wiltshire, Leigh Adams, Andrew Appleton, Ales Dryml.

Eastbourne: Martin Dugard, Brent Werner, David Norris, Stefan Andersson, Dean Barker, Joonas Kylmakorpi, Marcus Andersson.