GLASGOW boss Cami Brown is calling on his riders to deliver a “top-class performance” as they bid to end an 11-year wait for a league trophy.
The Tigers return to action at Ashfield on Sunday as Poole visit for the first leg of their SGB Championship play-off semi-final.
The home side go into the meeting with Ulrich Ostergaard and Danyon Hume injured.
Rider replacement is the only option for Ostergaard as he sits fourth in the averages, while Paul Starke guests at reserve in Hume’s place.
It is the Tigers’ first home meeting in more than a month – and the stakes could not be higher.
Brown said: “It’s been too long. I’m a wee bit nervous but that’s good – I want the riders to have that too because we ride best when we have that little edge.
“Ulrich had a practice this week and couldn’t hold onto the bike so he isn’t fit. If we make the final he may be fit – but there are no guarantees.
“Danyon is still not fit either so it’s a massive thanks to Paul for stepping in for all three matches next week – Sunday, Tuesday’s away match at Plymouth and the second leg at Poole on Wednesday.
“On Saturday we’ll be getting most of the boys together for a practice day, we’ll have a meal at night and they’ll stay over – so it means they don’t have to travel and will be nice and fresh for the Sunday. We’re trying to give ourselves the best chance possible.”
Brown continued: “The task ahead is mammoth. Their result against Leicester shows how good Poole are – they only lost by two points away and by 30 points at home.
“Poole are the only team to take points off us at home. I do think we’re a different side now, but if we’re to overcome them over two legs it’ll take a top-class performance from our guys. All six riders will need to contribute to that.
“But we’re 100% up for it. Poole will be looked at as favourites, however it’s what happens on the day and we can be as good as them. I know we can do it if we perform to the best of our ability.
“If we get ahead we’ll be building as big a lead as we can, but even if it’s close going down to Poole, I don’t think we go there automatically thinking we’ll lose.
“And you just never know with speedway – it’s a strange sport, so hopefully we get the rub of the green.”
Craig Cook returns after a couple of spells out through injury – fresh from a third-place finish in the British Championship.
Brown added: “Craig was magnificent in that meeting. Fingers crossed he’s back to the Craig we know.
“He’s relaxed, which helps, and we’re going to need him to be on it to have any chance in this semi-final.
“Craig is our leader and the one who can go and beat the Poole riders. He can beat any of them home or away.”
Edinburgh face Leicester this weekend in the other semi-final.
Sunday’s match starts at 6pm. Tickets are available on the door or online.