LEICESTER boss Stewart Dickson has vowed that Sheffield won’t have the league title “hunger” as an amazing war of words broke out between the clubs.
The Lions and Tigers go head-to-head twice in 48 hours in the Championship Shield at Leicester on Saturday night (7.30pm) and then Sheffield on Sunday at 4pm.
But new Watling JCB Lions chief Dicko has lashed out at their big rivals. He said: “It’s interesting that both Leicester and Sheffield have been tipped as league title favourites.
“I’m delighted with the team we have built with the Lions. I think it’s well balanced with a very experienced top end.
“But I don’t believe in the hype at this stage to be honest. There’s a long way to go in a speedway season, so much luck plays a part.
“Personally I don’t think Sheffield will have the stamina to go all the way this season. I think our top four are more youthful and will last the course.
“Don’t get me wrong, I think Sheffield are a very good side and will give us two very hard meetings this Easter, they are going to be blockbusters.
“But I just don’t see them having enough staying power or experience to stay up the top.
“I’ve been brought in at Leicester because I want to win trophies. That’s in my DNA. Perhaps we’ll have a bit more stamina and hunger than Sheffield when it comes to the crunch.”
Dickson admitted that he is particularly enthused by the form of his younger element of the side. He added: “I’ve got to say that Josh Bates and Ryan Douglas look a fabulous pairing. They really want to prove themselves.
“Jack Thomas, Connor Mountain and Ellis Perks have all started well. Their job now is consistency home and away. It’s a big test for them this weekend but I think they’ll come through it.”
Leicester v Sheffield, Saturday, April 20, 7.30pm.
Sheffield v Leicester, Sunday, April 21, 4pm.
