This Friday will see the first visit of Glasgow Tigers to Armadale on competitive business this year. Glasgow were the visitors in the opening night at Armadale and spoiled the party by winning the challenge match. Since then Glasgow's Armadale record has been indifferent with only a 45-45 draw in the Premier League Cup Northern Group qualifier in 1998 to break the run of twelve defeats.
Despite the streak of Armadale losses currently standing at eight over a near three year period, Glasgow have a team that is well capable of troubling Monarchs. While Glasgow prbably lack the heat leaders to win many races at Armadale they do have the strength-in-depth to pick up minor points in most heats. The Glasgow middle order contains solid Armadale performers such as Emiliano Sanchez, Mark Courtney, Aidan Collins, and Stuart Swales. They will make life difficult for the Edinburgh second strings and reserves to score points.
In the early season challenge match against Glasgow, Peter Carr, Robert Eriksson and Jan Andersen dominated most heats but Glasgow still only lost by 47-43. Monarchs can expect another tight match on Friday.
Edinburgh's new signing René Aas will make is debut at number four partnering his old friend and former teammate Peter Carr. Robert Eriksson moves back to the number one slot with Jan Andersen riding at number five.
Teams for the Premier National Trophy match at Armadale on Friday 27th April (start time 7.30, doors open 6.30) are:
Edinburgh Monarchs: Robert Eriksson, Blair Scott, Peter Carr (capt.), René Aas, Jan Andersen, Christian Henry, Derek Sneddon.
Glasgow Tigers: Les Collins, Emiliano Sanchez, Stuart Swales, Mark Courtney, James Grieves, Aidan Collins, Scott Courtney.
Glasgow are currently on twelve points in the Northern Group table and head Monarchs on race points difference. They have won all of their home matches this season, most without having to go to their now traditional last heat decider. They have also lost all their away matces but may feel that Armadale offers them the best opportunity of breaking this run. Monarchs will know that any slip-up on Friday will destroy any lingering hopes they have of qualification for the knock-out stage of the competition.