Eastbourne Eagles riders Nicki Pedersen and Joonas Kylmakorpi were the stars of yesterday's opening World Cup meeting in Denmark.

Pedersen led Denmark to victory at Holsted with 15 points as the host nation roared into next Saturday's final with 62 points. The Czech Republic came second on 51 points.

Kylmakorpi finished with 16 points, half Finland's total, while Germany were tailed off in last place with ten.

Kylmakorpi must now wait to see whether Finland join the Czechs in Thursday's run-off in Outrup as one of the two highest scoring third-placed teams.

Great Britain, who include Eastbourne riders Dean Barker and David Norris, race in tonight's round at Outrup against holders Australia, Slovenia and Italy.

Sweden, Poland, Russia and Hungary contest the third round in Holsted tomorrow. Saturday's final is at Vojens.