Newport Wasps are hoping that two of their riders will be fit in time to face Somerset Rebels at Hayley Stadium on Sunday afternoon in the Premier League Knock-out Cup, first round, first leg.

Flying Dane Niels Kristian Iversen took a fall in the British League Cup draw at Trelawny and took skin off an arm.

Reserve Chris Schramm was not quite so fortunate and had stitches in a wound yesterday morning after tangling with the safety fence in his last race.

Newport promoter Tim Stone said: "Chris came down very heavily but I expect him to be OK."

Stone is looking to "do a demolition job" against Somerset.

He said: "We intend to make as much progress as possible in the cup and I'm hoping the fans will turn out in force for another double header."

Stone is running as many double headers as possible. He explained: "It is essential because speedway at grass roots level is important but is simply too costly to run on its own and we are grateful to GMB for their backing of the Mavericks."

Wasps have lost only one of four away meetings - at Exeter. Stone added: "That is renowned for being a big advantage to the home side."

Wasps have gained draws at Reading, Swindon and Trelawny.

Stone said: "The boys are very upbeat after a good start - and hopefully the fans are too. We have several edges to smooth out but I believe we can go forward with confidence."

Somerset have suffered a massive double blow with the loss of Mario Jirout - who suffered multiple injuries in a car crash in January - and young Adam Pryer - who is out for the rest of the season after crashing at Mildenhall.

The return at Somerset's Oak Tree circuit is a week tomorrow.