SHEFFIELD Tigers speedway team race into an exciting new season on Thursday - with the mouthwatering visit of Elite League champions Coventry to Owlerton (7.45pm).

The Bees, who brushed aside Swindon in last year's play-off final, are tipped to do well again this season which means Thursday will provide Tigers with the ultimate test.

Former Sheffield hero Simon Stead, who won two Premier League titles with his hometown club, makes his Bees debut after a winter switch from Belle Vue - and Aussie Rory Schlein spent the early days of his career riding in Sheffield's former Conference League team.

Sheffield will give first outings to new signings Sam Martin and Lee Smethills at reserve - but of the return leg at Brandon on Friday Richard Hall and Tai Woffinden replace them.

Tigers skipper Andre Compton said: "This is a great way to start the season. There was talk of Belle Vue providing the opposition but you can't get any better than the reigning champions.

"I'm looking forward to it. The Coventry lads won't have any problems getting around our track and at the same time it's a great way for us to flex our muscles. I'm sure we'll see some great racing."

There is no increase in admission for this event, but there will be a full colour souvenir programme available for £2.

TIGERS: Andre Compton, Joel Parsons, Ricky Ashworth, Ben Wilson, Paul Cooper, Sam Martin, Lee Smethills.
COVENTRY: Rory Schlein, Billy Janniro, Chris Harris, Olly Allen, Simon Stead, Andreas Messing, Stanislaw Burza.