Glasgow Tigers have appealed to speedway officials after they banned debutants Harley Horwood and Joey Ringwood from joinging the Ashfield outfit.

Tigers director Derek Smith said: "We identified the two Australian riders following weeks of calls and negotiations.

"We thought the various recommendations supporting the riders coming to the UK, as well as the rider achievements in their respective state titles, placed them well for the green light to be able to race.

"But the Management Committee of the British Speedway Promoters Association have said neither rider would be granted any support which would enable the next stage of their employment application to be pursued.

"It is understood that while Glasgow's applications were declined, other young Australian riders contracted to rival clubs were rubber-stamped despite, in the view of the club, having no better qualifying criteria."

Smith added: "Glasgow bosses have lodged an appeal, highlighting those perceived inconsistencies.

"The club are expected to issue a further statement once the appeal has been heard."

SNOOKER: Neil Robertson played the shot of his life to set up a match-winning century as the defending Betfair Masters champion edged out Mark Allen to reach the semi-finals in London.

With a thrilling contest into a deciding frame, Allen put Robertson in all sorts of trouble. He ran through off a red to tuck in behind the yellow which was just off its spot.

Robertson's only escape was to target a red hanging over a top pocket, and Allen could do nothing but watch as his opponent went off the baulk cushion and down to the pocket, clipping in the red and landing on the black. From there the Australian made a classy 105 to win the match 6-5.