Wright’s men must be on their guard

Josh Tolley

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CROMPTON have a firm grip on the Lake Garage CLL Championship title race, but this weekend they are confronted by a double header which could pose problems.

Simon Wright’s men are seven points clear of second-placed Middleton with a game in hand, but that could be reduced to two points tomorrow if they slip against their nearest pursuers at Towncroft.

Middleton have been in fine form of late and have an excellent professional in all-rounder Ernest Kemm. With home advantage, they will be tough to crack.

The following day sees Crompton at home to Milnrow, who are third from bottom. This might seem like a home banker, but in professional James Price and top amateur Max Power, the visitors have two batsmen who can cause a lot of damage. Milnrow’s bowling attack is the Achilles heel, so Josh Tolley, Denis Louis et al must fill their boots.

Bottom two clubs in the Championship, Oldham and Werneth, have plenty to play for at the Coppice tomorrow. Oldham are marooned at the foot of the table, 11 points behind Werneth, but victory would narrow the gap and give them a lift for the rest of the season.

Both teams are also in action on Sunday: Werneth at Ashton and Oldham at home to Heyside.

Royton have a big date against Norden in the Wood Cup final on Sunday week. Places in the team are up for grabs so players will be out to impress this weekend when the club have a double header at home to Walsden and away to bottom club Clifton.

Royton are currently second from bottom of the Premier Division following a mid-season slump so a repeat of their cup heroics in their league fixtures is much needed.