Astley & Tyldesley entertained Bury in the first pre-season challenge match of 2005. The Gin Pit circuit was in superb condition, and providing some good racing. Both teams had first choice riders missing, but the day provided a good work out for both clubs.

A & T put in a composed first half to go in at the interval leading 49-41. They stepped up the pressure in the 2nd half to extend their lead and run out convincing 104-76 winners. European Champion Damian Zareba and European Junior Champion Remi Burchardt both raced unbeaten on their debuts for A & T. Veteran Frank Finnigan looked sharp, with good back up from the rest of the team. Bury failed to provide a heat win, with Steven Ward winning two races on his debut for them.

Challenge match result.

Astley & Tyldesley MW 104:

Remi Burchardt 20, Damian Zareba 18 (plus 2 bonus), Frank Finnigan 17 (1), Warren Mee 13 (2), Jeff Radcliffe 12 (2), Mike Hack 9, Tom Hall 8, Roy Heslop 7 (1).

Bury Pedalsport 76:

Steven Ward 15, Neil Howarth 14, Tom Doyle 13 (3), Ben Scranage 10, Ashley Simpson 8 (1), Chris Parish 6, Steve Mann 5, Michael Parish 5.

Bury gained their revenge with a comfortable 73-47 win in the Combination match. Chris Parish and Tom Doyle raced unbeaten, although Doyle was fortunate to escape exclusion when crossing the inside to win heat 6. A & T's Tom Hall impressed in his two races on his cycle speedway debut.

Challenge match result.

Astley & Tyldesley MW 'B' 47:

Mike Hack 9, Roy Heslop 9, John Nuttall 8 (1), Tom Hall 7, Dylan Radcliffe 6, Charlie Keirl 4, Maurice Radcliffe 4.

Bury Pedalsport 'B' 73:

Chris Parish 12, Tom Doyle 10 (2), Steve Mann 10, Sam Berry 9 (2), Leo Brindley 9 (1), Ashley Simpson 9 (1), Michael Parish 9, Rhys Fletcher 5.

Referee - Frank Finnigan.