NEWPORT Everest Group Wasps head into Sunday's Premier Trophy southern section return clash with Premier League title favourites King's (Lynn with renewed optimism after a superb midweek performance.

Wasps returned from the trip to the Norfolk Arena in fine spirits after pushing the Stars all the way, the 52-44 reverse in stark contrast to a 67-26 walloping last August.

The showing was all the more creditable because King's Lynn raced to a 12-point lead after four heats before Craig Watson and Carl Wilkinson led a determined fightback.

Promoter Tim Stone said: "When you consider they put 67 on us last year it was an immense turnaround. The bonus point is up for grabs and we will be looking to win the meeting and get the bonus as well.

"It was a very good performance from the whole team at King's Lynn. It was a remarkable recovery and the whole squad showed great character."

The encouraging signs have not been limited to the performance against the Stars. Aussie ace Watson, Wilkinson, Neil Collins and Tony Atkin all gave fine displays in last Sunday's last-heat Premier Trophy success over the Isle of Wight.

But King's Lynn present a strong challenge with their silky-smooth skipper Tomas Topinka leading from the front and another former Elite League rider in Daniel Nermark (a Wolverhampton asset) a newcomer to the club this season.

There is a strong Australian slant to the Stars' middle order with Kevin Doolan, Trevor Harding and rapidly rising youngster Troy Batchelor all having ridden for the club before. And at reserve, Chris Mills has packed in plenty of experience despite being just 22, while Simon Lambert is one of the major up-and-coming talents of the sport.

It all adds up to a tough test for Wasps but they will be looking to make home advantage count and continue their quest for a top-two place in the southern group of the Trophy (tapes up 2.30pm).