PROWLERS BACK IN TITLE HUNT

Sheffield Prowlers propelled themselves back into the Conference title race with Monday night’s massive win against Rye House — as they reeled in a 26-point deficit to take the bonus point.

And the good news for the Owlerton side was the return of Rory Schlein and the return to form of his fellow Aussies Trevor Harding and Ben Powell.

Schlein, who missed several matches through injury and his Edinburgh commitments, was beaten just once by an opponent, after a bad start led to his only blip of the night when he was beaten by the lively Steve BoxaII.

His paid 16, along with Ricky Ashworth’s six-ride maximum, provided the platform for Sheffield’s triumph, while Harding bagged 12 and Powell was paid for nine.

It’s no secret that both Harding and Powell had been under pressure to improve their professionalism — and they both responded in the right fashion.

Harding, helped in the pits by Tiger Jamie Birkinshaw, had four wins in his five rides, but a missed start second time out wrecked his maximum hopes.

Powell also had a no-score first time out, but followed that with three paid wins.

“It was a tremendous all-round performance,” said promoter Neil

Machin. “Everyone played their part and to claw back a 26-point deficit was amazing, especially considering we were only two points in front after six heats.”

Prowlers tackle Wimbledon on Monday night in search of more league points.