King v Klindt: Two proven No.1s set for another fascinating duel
When Plymouth and Redcar meet, much of the attention will naturally fall on the battle between the two spearheads of their teams. Danny King and Nicolai Klindt have already traded blows twice this season, and tonight's Championship meeting offers another chapter in what is becoming a fascinating rivalry.
On current rolling averages, Klindt holds the slight statistical edge. The Redcar captain averages 8.97, compared to King's 8.50, and has won an impressive 58 races this season. King's figures are hardly far behind though, with 40 race wins and the experience to deliver when his team needs him most.
Recent meetings suggest there is very little between them.
In the first leg of the MAXiCab KO Cup, Klindt produced a superb 13-point haul from five rides, narrowly outperforming King's excellent 12+1.
But Plymouth had the last word.
In the second leg, King responded magnificently with 11+3 from five rides, while Klindt was restricted to just 3 points from four rides as the Gladiators booked their place in the Knock-Out Cup Final.
That swing perfectly sums up Speedway. One meeting rarely tells the whole story.
Tonight's encounter is likely to have a major influence on the result. If King can continue the form he showed in the return leg, Plymouth give themselves every chance of controlling the meeting. If Klindt rediscovers the level he produced in the first leg, Redcar will have a genuine match-winner leading from the front.
For supporters, this is one contest well worth keeping an eye on every time the tapes go up. Two experienced No.1s. Two proven race winners. One more opportunity to settle the score.