Oxford Chargers can cement their spot in the National Development League play-offs when they take on Belle Vue Colts at Sandy Lane tonight (7.30pm).

A win would see the hosts climb above the high-flying Manchester outfit into third place with only three regular season fixtures remaining.

Chargers are without Greater Leys resident Nathan Stoneman, who suffered a broken shoulder blade while racing for SGB Championship club Berwick Bandits against Plymouth Gladiators on Saturday.

Rider replacement will be operated in the fans’ favourite’s absence, but joint team manager Peter Schroeck believes his side remain capable of keeping their unbeaten home record intact.

“It is a blow to lose a rider of Nathan’s ability at this level,” he said.

“But our recent home performances have proven to me that we have a well-rounded team where every rider is capable of winning races.

“Injuries are part and parcel of speedway, and often having the appropriate back-up in place can be the difference between a winning and a losing team.

“I believe we’ve got the back-up and that Belle Vue remain in for a tough test.

“That doesn’t mean we’re not wary of the threats of Belle Vue, though.

“Jack Smith is a proven rider at this level, and they’ve booked a dangerous guest in Adam Roynon who we know is capable of scoring points at Oxford in the Championship.”

Meanwhile, Scott Nicholls and Aaron Summers have been chosen to ride for Oxford Cheetahs in the Championship Pairs at Sandy Lane this Friday.

All ten second-tier clubs will be represented at the meeting.