Eagles aim to go out with a bang

The British speedway champions take on Oxford Cheetahs in their final match of the season at Arlington Stadium.

Although the result is academic to the Sussex squad, they want to end the campaign on a high note.

And to guarantee things don't end with a damp squib, Eastbourne boss Jon Cook has booked in a £3,000 firework display.

Eagles are out of the Craven Shield, but Cook said: "We want to give the fans a good send-off."

Cook is expecting a big crowd to see the champions knock spots off the Cheetahs.

He said: "It is the last chance for our supporters to see the championship winning team in action."

Joe Screen will not be riding because of an ankle injury, but skipper Martin Dugard and Dean Barker are in the line-up.

Dugard, recovering from a broken collar-bone, pulled out of last week's draw with Poole after three rides, while Barker goes into hospital at the end of the season for operations on both knees.

Eagles will have Scott Nicholls as a guest replacement for Screen, while the No. 7 spot will be filled by Savalas Clouting.

Oxford should provide a good test of Eastbourne's end of season aspirations.

Skipper Steve Johnston and Grand Prix men Jimmy Nilsen and Todd Wiltshire have all hit big scores at Arlington in the past.

Plans to stage a Championship of Sussex next week have been abandoned, but Sunday's event will include a pairs meeting involving present and past Eastbourne riders.

Martin Dugard will partner Eric Dugard, David Norris will team up with Dave Kennett, Dean Barker with Trevor Geer and Petri Kokko with Olli Tyrvainen.

The start is at 3.30.

Eastbourne: Martin Dugard, Dean Barker, David Norris, Paul Hurry, Scott NIcholls, Petri Kokko, Savalas Clouting.

Oxford: Todd Wiltshire, Mark Lemon, Brian Andersen, Steve Johnston, Jimmy Nilsen, Ales Dryml, Lukas Dryml.

l Martin Dugard and Joe Screen have been withdrawn from tomorrow's Elite League Riders' Championship at Coventry. Eastbourne will now be represented by David Norris and Paul Hurry.