SOMERSET’S Oaktree Arena takes centre stage on Friday night (July 3) as the venue once again plays hosts to the Premier League Pairs Championship.

The home pairing of Brady Kurtz and Josh Grajczonek will be looking to add to the club’s 2013 pairs win, which came after the Rebels had been the proverbial bridesmaid on so many previous occasions.

Last season saw Somerset once again on the second step of the winners’ podium after losing the final to Edinburgh, so Rebels team manager, Garry May is keen to bring the trophy back to the Oaktree Arena.

He said: “We had come so close on so many occasions to winning the pairs in the past that it was with some degree of relief as well as much elation when we finally lifted the trophy in 2013.

“Doyley and Josh going down in Rebels history with their victory on that never to be forgotten occasion.

“Of course we had the controversy of last year’s final, which saw us once again end up as runners-up, so we are doubly keen to see that pairs trophy back on display in the Oaktree.

“I know that it is said every year about the pairs, but this year looks to be another very open meeting and I am sure that each of the other 9 teams taking part all fancy their chances of being crowned as the 2015 Premier League Pairs Champions, and although I have heard that some people have commented that Somerset are clear favourites, I certainly don’t see it that way.

“Yes, Brady and Josh have been in excellent form around the Oaktree Arena so far this year, but that counts for nothing come Friday’s Championship, everyone starts out on a level playing field - and it is going to be tough for any pairing to progress out of their respective group, let alone go on and win the title.

“Hopefully the weather and the road network will ‘play ball’ on Friday and that there will be another good crowd for this show-piece event.”

Fans attending are advised to note that the tapes up on heat one will be at 7pm, with the pre-meeting parade taking place at 6.45pm, while the turnstiles will open at 5pm, an hour earlier than usual match-day opening time.

Admission Prices: Adults £20.00, Concessions £15.00, Junior (5-16) £5.00, Children (under 5) free

Programme: £4.00

Car Park: £1.00

Gates open – 5.00

Pre-Meeting Rider Parade – 6.45pm

Tapes Up – 7.00pm