SWINDON Robins will now open their season away at Lakeside on March 28 after a fixture switch.

Alun Rossiter's side had been due to travel to the Arena Essex Raceway on May 30 and were set to begin their Elite League campaign away at Coventry on April 3, but will now travel to Essex instead.

The Hammers had been due to run a challenge match with Poole on the same day but have now opted to change the fixture due to the fact the Pirates would not have been at full strength. 

Promoter Jon Cook said: “What an exciting and risky way to start. The Robins have been dynamite at our place but we believe the 2014 Hammers can kick off our season in style.

“All of our riders will have been in action as we ride a Challenge at Poole 48 hours earlier, plus we have the track at the Arena Essex Raceway all week for practice - and what better way to start the season than with three League points."