SHEFFIELD will launch their 2012 speedway season with a home War of the Roses battle against Elite League side Belle Vue Aces.

The meeting will take place on Thursday, March 22, at Owlerton with the usual 7.45pm start time.

And the world famous Aces include Australian World Cup stars Rory Schlein and Adam Shields and Danish duo Patrick Hougaard and Charlie Gjedde.

David Hoggart, co-promoter of the Sheffield Window Centre-backed side, said: “The full Premier League fixture list should be available in the not too distant future and everyone at the club is now starting to get excited about the new season.

“There has been some negativity surrounding the team because of all the changes we have made but all the boys are desperate to do well, starting against Belle Vue on March 22 when I’m sure there will be a big crowd because Belle Vue will bring plenty of supporters with them.

“We obviously want to beat Belle Vue to get the season off to a winning start and lay a marker down to the other Premier League teams.”