WORCESTER Wolves are calling for an inspired performance from captain Josh Cooprider as they prepare to face old adversaries London Capitals tonight (7pm).

The Wolves guard has scored 70 points from six games this season, an average of slightly over 11, but last season he was closer to double that figure.

And director of basketball Mick Donovan believes the rediscovery of that form is long over due.

He said: "We are looking for a big game from him. He is playing well but not getting the points he normally gets. We are expecting him to step up."

The stage is nicely set for Cooprider as Wolves are expecting a large crowd for tonight's visit of the English Basketball League Division One basement side at UCW.

Wayne Robinson is the only player missing from the squad due to outside commitments for a fixture carrying an extra edge.

Both sides were promoted from English Basketball League Division Two last season when Capitals were known as North West London. They know each other's play inside out as the result of four matches last term, including victories for Wolves en route to winning the Patron's Cup and play-offs.

"Last year we played them four times," Donovan said. "We beat each other once in the league and beat them in the Patron's Cup semi-final and play-off finals so we know each other quite well.

"Our best games were always against them and we got the biggest crowds against them because they are an exciting team."

Donovan also sees the game as a yardstick to who has made the smoother transition to the higher level. Wolves won their opening game against Kingston Wildcats, but lost to London United 83-78 last Saturday after leading for three quarters.

London Capitals, meanwhile, have lost both their league matches to date. "They want to do well and we want to do well, it will be a good measure to see who has adapted the best," Donovan added.

Despite defeat to London United, the result, coupled with a National Cup third round victory over Coventry Crusaders last Sunday, has kept confidence high in the camp.

Wolves have been handed a home tie against Nottingham in the National Cup quarter-final on Sunday, November 7.