Oxford Cheetahs' search for their first win of the season continues when they take on Eastbourne in the Skybet Elite League at Oxford Stadium tonight (7.30).

And it doesn't look any easier as they come up against old Oxford favourites Nicki Pedersen, the former world champion, and Dean Barker, plus David Norris and Australian Adam Shields.

However, in recent home meetings Cheetahs have shown some improvement and could have easily had a win already under their belts, but for some ill luck.

Tony Rickardsson is preparing to bow out of his short-term contract at Cowley on Friday, so a 15-point maximum would not be out of place for Cheetahs tonight.

Lubos Tomicek is unavailable because of a commitment in the Czech Republic, and Cheetahs boss Aaron Lanney has drafted in Tomasz Piszcz to cover at reserve.

The Pole rides for Workington in the Premier League, averaging around the eight-point mark Tomicek is expected to return in time for the Good Friday double-header against Reading.

Eastbourne, too, have a problem after American Brent Werner suffered a shoulder injury in the narrow 46-44 victory over Wolverhampton on Saturday.

The Kids for a Quid scheme continues tonight and on Good Friday.

TONIGHT'S LINE-UPS (averages in brackets)

Oxford: David Howe (6.65), Eric Andersson (4.00), Davey Watt (6.60), Adam Skornicki (5.96), Tony Rickardsson (9.11), Tomasz Piszcz (4.00), Adam Pietraszko (4.00).

Eastbourne: David Norris (7.15), Andrew Moore (3.92), Adam Shields (6.43), Dean Barker (5.20), Nicki Pedersen (10.15), AN Other, Lewis Bridger (3.00).

* The Good Friday derby against leaders Reading, who include Oxford's top duo of Greg Hancock and Travis McGowan from last year, gets under way at 12.30 with the return at Smallmead in the evening (7.30).

Gates open at 11am and a large crowd is expected.

Extra parking will be available at the Unipart car park.

Reading, back in the big time after a spell in the Premier League, are now under the Benfield Sports International banner, organisers of the Grand Prix series.

They have certainly made an impact, having snapped up the likes of Hancock, McGowan and Charlie Gjedde with Sam Ermolenko as sporting director.