SHEFFIELD seized control of their Championship Shield group after a 51-39 win at Redcar on Friday.
Tigers took all four available points at the Media Prima Arena, meaning as long as they avoid defeat at Newcastle on Sunday, the Steel City side are guaranteed a place in the next round.
Team boss Simon Stead was delighted with his team's efforts and pinpointed the rider replacement cover for Josh Bates as a major contributing factor.
"In the main we've covered it okay just about but tonight that was probably the key difference in the end," Stead said.
"To get ten points from those four rides was crucial and the boys deserve full credit for that.
"While Jack (Smith) had a tougher night, he still gave it his all and the rest of the team produced a real solid performance once again.
"It's nice to head to Newcastle on Sunday knowing what we need to do, but these have been two good wins over Redcar over the past two nights and I'm really proud of the team."
Ex-Redcar man Charles Wright continued his 100 per cent record of bagging double figures in every meeting since joining the club over the winter.
James Shanes starred at reserve with a terrific paid 12 contribution while Todd Kurtz returned to impressive form winning four or his five rides following a tough night at Owlerton against the Bears on Thursday.
Captain Kyle Howarth picked up two paid wins before sliding off in Heat 15 while Lasse Bjerre won two of his four programmed rides against his old club.
Teenage reserve Jack Smith endured his toughest night so far and failed to score from three rides.
Tigers now have a day to prepare ahead of Sunday's vital trip to Newcastle (6.30).
REDCAR 39: Ty Proctor 11+1, Ben Barker 10, Jonas B Andersen 7, Nathan Greaves 6, Jordan Stewart 3+1, Mikkel B Andersen 1, Theo Pijper 1.
SHEFFIELD 51: Charles Wright 15, Todd Kurtz 12, James Shanes 10+2, Kyle Howarth 7+2, Lasse Bjerre 7+1, Jack Smith 0, Josh Bates R/R.
