Derby day’s double header

IT’S derby day in the CLL tomorrow as an exciting double-header weekend kicks-off with a bang.

The weather forecast is favourable so a decent crowd is expected to head for the Coppice as improving Werneth host neighbours Royton in the Premier Division.

The hosts struggled during the first half of the current campaign, and though they still prop up the table, Matthew Taylor’s men won back-to-back matches before last week’s wash-outs.

Royton beat Heywood last time out, and they are looking for two positive results which could well fire them into the top half of the table.

After tomorrow’s Coppice clash, Royton then return home on Sunday to face second-placed Walsden.

Skipper Denny Hulme said: “Derbies are always tough, and Werneth have hit a bit of form lately so well done to them.

“Two wins would give us a major lift this weekend, though.

“Walsden are up there challenging, and they are a well-rounded side with 11 good first-team players. But we always fancy our chances at home.”

Werneth travel to Clifton on Sunday.

Tomorrow’s big Championship tie sees Oldham host high-flying Crompton.

If Simon Wright’s Crompton could pick up another much-needed victory in their derby game, that will set them up perfectly for a mouth-watering home clash against current division leaders Milnrow on Sunday.

Two wins from two this weekend and Crompton will be right back in the promotion frame.

Oldham head to mid-table Unsworth on Sunday.