PREVIEW: EDINBURGH v BIRMINGHAM (Champ)

EDINBURGH boss Alex Harkess is looking for a double-figure advantage from the first leg of their KO Cup tie against Birmingham tonight (Friday).

Harkess is pleased to welcome back former Monarchs star Erik Riss who forms part of the Brummies’ spearhead – but hopes his own heat-leaders get the job done.

The visitors operate rider-replacement for Valentin Grobauer who has a Polish League commitment.

Harkess said: “It’s up to us to try to build a lead. I always work to the same principle; 10 or 12 is the in between stage, anything above 12 favours us, below 10 goes against you.

“That’s proven a wasted statement in the Edinburgh performances this year as we’ve been better away, but it’s still how I think of it!

“It’s nice to welcome Erik back, as I’ve always felt Erik is really one of us, and it will be nice to seeing him back. But I hope he doesn’t score too many points. If we are at full strength and ride to our best, I think we will take a good lead to Birmingham.”