by John Walsh

Last updated 10:53, Saturday, 20 September 2008

Sheffield might not be one of Kauko Nieminen’s favourite tracks but the Workington skipper will be a leading contender on Sunday.

The popular Finn goes to Owlerton as the Comets representative in the Premier League Riders championship – in the form of his life.

He takes the place of Workington’s official number one Daniel Nermark whose season was ended prematurely because of the need for a knee operation.

Last night at Derwent Park Nieminen reeled off four straight wins and set the fastest time of the night – something which has been a regular occurrence this season – as the Comets demolished Stoke Potters 59-34.

But his best winning time of 63.6 was the third fastest ever round Derwent Park – and he already is the second fastest behind record holder Simon Stead (63.2).

“It’s not nice when you have to take over from an injured team-mate so I feel sorry for Daniel missing the chance. I will endeavour to give it my best shot.

“I have been riding well this season and collecting good scores, in the Elite League have boosted my confidence,” he says.

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