NEIL Middleditch has warned Krzysztof Buczkowski he must prove his worth as Pirates bid to take a step towards the play-off final.

Polish star Buczkowski heads into the semi-final first-leg clash against Wolverhampton off the back of some patchy form in the skull and crossbones.

And team boss Middleditch admits the Peterborough loan ace has to produce the goods with silverware within sight for Pirates.

Middleditch told the Daily Echo: "Buczkowski is probably a bit of a concern. He really needs to step up to the plate.

"He has shown us some brilliance but he has also had some very bad meetings so he really has to show us what he's worth against Wolverhampton."

The latest averages have seen Adam Ellis drop to reserve to form a potent-looking spearhead with Kyle Newman, with experienced Dane Bjarne Pedersen moving up into the main body of the team.

Middleditch added: "Bjarne has been tremendous at reserve and will probably find it a bit harder in a heat leader position. But then I have the luxury of Adam and Kyle at reserve.

"They are both capable of winning races against any rider on their day."