NEWPORT are bracing themselves for a strong challenge from Birming-ham in tomorrow's second leg Knockout Cup tie at the Hayley Stadium.

Wasps gave easily their best away display of the season so far in Wednesday's first leg at Perry Barr and have a realistic chance of progressing on aggregate after going down to just an eight-point defeat.

With wins in their last three home outings, confidence is rising all the time, but the Brummies have in their ranks riders with proven records of success at Newport.

Skipper Brent Werner won last year's New Year Classic, Ulrich Ostergaard starred for the Isle of Wight in his previous spell in the Premier League and Jason Lyons is a polished performer at every venue, home or away.

Wasps promoter Tim Stone said: "We're very much looking forward to Sunday having not known quite what to expect in the first leg. But the boys set the standard in heat one and we had a good night there.

"We're certainly not taking anything for granted though, we know that Birmingham are packed full of experience and good riders. We'll be looking to do a really earnest job and go out and beat Birmingham.

"There was no one real star on Wednesday night, they all went out and did their jobs and that's what we've got at the minute. There are no prima donnas, it's just a case of seven hard-working blokes.

"They know the incentive is there for them to go through to the next round, and that will give them a couple more matches - and that's what they all want."

Wasps will continue to use the rider replacement facility for the injured Nick Simmons, which will again allow extra rides for reserve Michal Rajkowski.

The rest of the team remains unchanged, although it has been a busy week off-track for Aussie youngster Tom Hedley who has blown engines in his last two meetings and has therefore been working hard to bring his machinery back up to speed.

Supporters are reminded of the 4pm start-time which will remain in place throughout the summer, and includes next Sunday's ten-year celebration meeting.