SHEFFIELD Tigers are bidding for a fifth straight Premier League win when they face Birmingham at Owlerton on Thursday (7.45pm).

Eric Boocock’s men have seen their season rejuvenated after going on a winning run including precious away wins over Glasgow and Scunthorpe.

Ben Powell, a former Birmingham rider, has been booked to deputise for injured reserve Lee Smethills for the Sheffield Window Centre-backed side. He will also ride in the return fixture at Perry Barr this Sunday.

Tigers owner Neil Machin said: “We’re on a good run of form and we want to see that continue, but it won’t be easy.”

Birmingham include former Sheffield favourite Kyle Legault, who shocked the Owlerton outfit with a transfer request last winter before joining the Brummies on loan.

The Canadian has made a brave return to the saddle ahead of schedule after suffering a broken thigh in April and has recently hit a good run of form for the Perry Barr side.

James Cockle spent last season with Sheffield and has recently been added to the Birmingham side as part of an unpopular team reshuffle which saw Tigers asset James Birkinshaw axed - but there is a feeling he may be wanted back in the Second City next season.

Skipper Jason Lyons remains one of the top performers in the Premier League and will represent Birmingham in next month's Premier League Riders' Championship at Owlerton when he will start as one of the favourites. The meeting takes place on September 21.

Meanwhile, fans who fancy watching the meeting in style can take advantage of a special deal in the Panorama Room Restaurant with a new carvery for just £7.50.

SHEFFIELD: Ricky Ashworth R/R, Paul Cooper, Andre Compton, Joel Parsons , Ben Wilson, Kyle Hughes, Ben Powell.
BIRMINGHAM: Tomasz Piszcz, Jack Roberts, Jason Lyons, Kyle Legault, Craig Watson, James Cockle, Jay Herne.