JT/FOX Oxford Cheetahs were back to something near their very best last weekend when they successfully dumped last year's Elite League champions out of the KO Cup and booked their semi-final place.

Owner Steve Purchase had every reason to be pleased with his team's efforts. he said: "They showed great determination and application with some brilliant racing." Steve Purchase

He also was also quick to explain the 'secret' meeting held with the riders prior to Friday's match

"The team spirit in our camp is superb and the meeting was about reviewing the first few weeks of the season and seeing how we can improve as a unit.

"Communication between riders and management is an important part of team work, as such there will be more of these meetings."

The display at Eastbourne was breathtaking, especially as two vital cogs of the Cheetahs team, Ales and Lukas Dryml, were on Grand Prix duty.

Premier League star Garry Stead from Hull was drafted in and did a superb job.

Promoter Vanessa Purchase said: "Garry got stuck in right from the start and the team spirit obviously had a positive effect on him as he was by the pits gate between every race to gee on the rest of the team."

Oxford have not reached the semi-final stage of the KO Cup since 1997.

*It does not get any easier for the Cheetahs this weekend as they face league leaders Poole at home tomorrow and then travel to second-placed Coventry on Saturday.

Brian Andersen misses the home clash

on Friday due to the Danish final although he will be back for the trip to Coventry.