SHEFFIELD go head-to-head with Ipswich at Owlerton on Monday (May 13, 7.30pm) for the first time since their unforgettable Grand Final showdown last October.
That saw the South Yorkshire side create history as they successfully overturned an 18 point first leg deficit to lift their first ever top-flight league title.
The two clubs have built strong sides once again this term and are both in fine form ahead of Monday’s clash.
The Tru7 Group Tigers have won four meetings on the spin in all competitions whilst the Witches have lost just once so far.
Sheffield produced a late comeback to dump rivals Belle Vue out of the Knockout Cup in a Super Heat on Thursday.
And skipper Kyle Howarth is hoping they can carry over those vibes to help them deliver what he feels would be a statement of intent against the current league leaders.
“Like ourselves, Ipswich have built another strong, similar looking side with a very strong top end, and it’s going to be another great meeting,” Howarth said.
“After a real battle the past couple of home meetings, it would be nice if we could lay down a bit of a marker with an even bigger win – but as long as we get the two league points, I guess it doesn’t matter what the final score is.
“The atmosphere on Thursday was electric; the fans got going, they were all cheering and chanting towards the end and there’s no doubt about it, that made a big difference - hopefully we’ll get more of the same on Monday.”
Ipswich include current World Championship leader Jason Doyle as well as former Tiger Adam Ellis. The visitors also bring in Leicester’s Ryan Douglas as a guest with captain Danny King ruled out with a fractured hand.
Turnstiles open at 6pm on Monday and admission is £23 adults, £21 concessions (over 65s and students - both with evidence), £1 kids (up to and including age 17) whilst all under-5s are admitted free of charge.
Supporters are also reminded that the Carvery Restaurant, Panorama Room and Snack Bar will all be open as per the Tigers’ usual Thursday racenight.
SHEFFIELD: Jack Holder, Kyle Howarth, Chris Holder, Josh Pickering, Tai Woffinden, Jason Edwards, Dan Gilkes. IPSWICH: Emil Sayfutdinov, Dan Thompson, Adam Ellis, Ryan Douglas, Jason Doyle, Keynan Rew, Jordan Jenkins.
