SHEFFIELD Tigers will have to overcome one of the most strongly fancied teams in the country when they face the mighty Belle Vue Aces at Owlerton on Thursday (7.45).

The ‘War of the Roses’ showdown sees Eric Boocock’s men come up against a team from a league higher – and the Manchester outfit are strongly tipped to reach the Elite League play-offs.

It promises to be a spectacular start to the new season with a bumper crowd expected.

Said Boocock: “It’s going to be a difficult start for the lads but a great workout for them and I’m sure they will give a good account of themselves.

“It would be good if we could beat them obviously but they’ve named a powerful team for this one.”

Aces include British Grand Prix superstar Chris Harris (Pictured), Danish World Cup rider Patrick Hougaard and Australian international Rory Schlein, a former Sheffield junior rider.