Key sub-plots in derby clash

ADAM GOOD should be brimming with confidence after last weekend’s seven-wicket haul.

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CROMPTON and Royton fight it out on Sunday in a fascinating clash between sides from different CLL divisions.

Glebe Street is the venue for the rearranged JW Lees Bitter Wood Cup last-16 fixture. Though Royton are favourites, given their place in the higher division and a fine season so far, Crompton in the second-tier are unbeaten and likely heading back to top-flight cricket.

The two teams should have met at the end of last month, but overnight rain rendered the pitch unplayable. There should be no such worries this weekend,

The performances of the two professionals will be pivotal. Royton’s Geeth Alwis has been steady for Royton, while Crompton’s Josh Tolley has been consistent for his team with an average of over 85 at the top of the order.

Opening bowler Adam Good returned to his best for Royton with a seven-wicket haul against Littleborough last weekend, but Crompton’s Danny Taylor is also flying high and could be a key factor.

So, too, could be the respective displays of the overseas amateurs. Denis Louis hit an unbeaten century for Crompton at Werneth last weekend and fellow overseas amateur Sam Fielding has ruffled the feathers of several top division batsmen since joining Royton.

Also eyeing a place in the quarter-finals will be Heyside, who entertain Premier Division outfit Monton and Weaste. The day’s other rearranged fixture sees Radcliffe entertain Heywood.

The last eight of the Wood Cup will be played on July 5, with semis on July 19 and the final on August 2.

Royton have an open date tomorrow, so the spotlight is on championship leader Crompton at Elton. Heyside entertain Radcliffe and Oldham are at home to Milnrow. Werneth have an open date.

twitter: @KeithMcHughOC