TOBI Kroner made big strides last season and the 22-year-old German wants to do the same this year. He also believes he can take the Ipswich Evening Star Witches along with him.

Elvin King

TOBI Kroner made big strides last season and the 22-year-old German wants to do the same this year.

He also believes he can take the Ipswich Evening Star Witches along with him.

After claiming a paid maximum in a massive 61-31 victory over Peterborough at Foxhall Stadium last night, reserve Kroner said: “The difference in this side and the one we had last season is immense.

“If you ask anyone this year they are keen to help you. Communications were not as good as they should have been last year.

“The spirit is such that it is helping us on the track.

“I can only explain it as being like a wave and we are being taken along on what has all the makings of being a memorable journey.”

Kroner admits that he did not know how to react following the Craven Shield victory at Lakeside last Friday night.

“I was not used to winning away with Ipswich and it was a new experience for me,” said Kroner, who stays with injured Witches' rider Mark Loram and uses the former world champion's workshops at Stowmarket.

“Ipswich is a big priority for me again this season.

“I am also riding in Poland, but I see my performances with Ipswich as shaping my future.

“I want to do well in the Grand Prix qualifiers and reach the final again at least.”

Kroner revealed that he went back to basics after the home defeat by Lakeside on Good Friday afternoon.

“I have a new sponsor and was trying out some new gear.

“Before the meeting at Lakeside I switched everything back, including the clutch, and I was making starts again.

“Memories of last year came flooding back and it makes life easier when you are making starts.”

Peterborough team manager Trevor Swales confirmed that the Panthers were within a fraction of a point of keeping Piotr Swiderski.

“It did not look as though anybody was going to come in for him,” said Swales.

“Then we were happy to fix him up with the Witches.

“He is a very good rider, but we just could not fit him in.

“It was a bad day at the office for us last night and I think most teams will experience that at some stage this season.”

Robert Miskowiak, who joined in the fun after a disappointing start to the season, said: “Peterborough are recognised as a good team and this win bodes well for us.

“I am slowly starting to feel better and am looking to get back to my high form.”