TWO positive things to come out of the 2003 speedway season for Ipswich Witches fans have been the inspired form of Scott Nicholls and the signing of the highly promising Daniel King.

By Elvin King

TWO positive things to come out of the 2003 speedway season for Ipswich Witches fans have been the inspired form of Scott Nicholls and the signing of the highly promising Daniel King.

The former will be on his way to Slovenia for Saturday's Grand Prix when The Evening Star Witches take on neighbours King's Lynn in a British League Cup Group A fixture at Foxhall Stadium tomorrow night.

But the latter, who has this week confirmed his future lies with Ipswich, has a vital role to play in a reserve berth.

King, who is 16, rides for Mildenhall in the Conference League and he has also made guest appearances in the Premier League this year.

Ipswich bought him from Peterborough, with financial help from the Supporters Club, in the spring after he impressed in his two opening British League Cup meetings for the club.

This is the only competition left for Ipswich to go for as they are too far adrift in the Sky Sports Elite League to stand any realistic chance of making the play-offs. Oxford knocked them out of the KO Cup.

The aggregate bonus point will be vital tomorrow night after Lynn's 48-41 victory in the corresponding match at Saddlebow Road.

Now free of injury after damaging his ankle at Lynn, King said: "Ipswich is where I see my long term future. But is has been ideal to get Premier League experience with Reading as well as riding in the Conference for Mildenhall.

"Apart from giving me more variety, joining Mildenhall has been a boost as I am part of a winning team. We are on a high most of the time and that rubs off on everyone.

"I have got quite a bit on my plate riding in three leagues, but I am enjoying it and hopefully coping with it."

King had to miss out on Mildenhall's win at Newcastle last week as he had no one to drive him north, but Ben Howe was in terrific form going through the card in style with moves aplenty from the back.

With Chris Slabon ill, Danny Bird comes into the Witches side tomorrow. He also faces Lynn tonight riding for the Isle of Wight in a Premier League fixture.

It is a busy week for Bird, who had Isle of Wight meetings last night, tonight and again on Friday.

Kim Jansson rides for Ipswich tomorrow with Freddie Eriksson and Paul Hurry heat leaders with Bird. Ben Howe will partner King at reserve.

Lynn will be spearheaded by Tomas Topinka, Davey Watt and Adam Allott.