The Oxford Cheetahs raced to a 50-40 win over Redcar to take the initial advantage in their Cab Direct KO Cup semi-final.
However, the result came at a potential cost for the Cheetahs with Jordan Jenkins crashing out in Heat 14, and he is due to have X-rays on a wrist injury today.
Bears heat-leader Danny King was also in the wars, hurting his foot in a Heat 13 spill meaning he did not race in Heat 15.
Sam Masters (12+1) and Scott Nicholls (11+2) led the Oxford scoring with youngster Ashton Boughen picking up 10+1.
Charles Wright kept the visitors in contention with 12 and reserve Jake Mulford impressed with 9+1, and the tie will be concluded at the ECCO Arena on Friday.
Oxford manager Peter Schroeck said: “Better ten points (lead) than no points. Last time we had a draw (at Redcar) without Ashton, if we are missing Jordan then we can look for a guest or use rider replacement.
“Jordan has been working so hard to get things right, it is a little upsetting at the moment.”
Scorecard
oxford_04.09.24_res2Pictures by Mark Lee Sing – Words by British Speedway
