OXFORD Spires made a winning start to their Premiership campaign with a 47-43 win at home against Birmingham Brummies.

Led by skipper Chris Harris, Spires were taken to the last race as the visitors staged a second half comeback, meaning the hosts needed to avoid a 5-1 reverse in Heat 15 to take the win.

A brave opening lap by Harris secured him second place, while Polish star Maciej Janowski claimed third on the line after a well-timed final bend move to confirm a four-point win.

The shared heat delighted the packed terraces with supporters turning out in force despite the damp forecast.

Team manager Peter Schroeck praised the resilience of his team in the closing heats.

He said: “Credit to both teams, Birmingham really put up a fight and failed to give in. We had to dig deep but the boys showed that determination which is a great quality in any team.

“Conditions were as good as we could’ve wished for considering the weather. The track staff did a fantastic job preparing the surface and ensuring it could handle the forecast rain which arrived before the meeting.

“All in all, it was a positive night and we can look forward to Sheffield next week and another tough challenge.”