Poignant derby showdown for Mel
Reporter: Keith McHugh
Date published: 27 August 2010
CRICKET: MEL Whittle’s impending retirement from cricket has added extra spice to Sunday’s derby match between Oldham and Crompton.
The 63-year-old has only four matches to play before hanging up his boots, but this clash – between two teams he has represented for years – will be much the most poignant.
And, on current form, it is a game Whittle and Oldham should win.
Crompton always knew it was going to be a long, hard struggle this season and must be glad that only four fixtures remain.
No-one wants to pick up the wooden spoon and bottom club Crompton trail Oldham by six points. Victory for Carl Taylor’s men would go a long way to bridging the gap.
Oldham continue to blow hot and cold and it’s anyone’s guess which team will show up at the Pollards.
If it is the one which recorded a double over league leaders Norden, then Crompton had better watch out.
There is also derby action at Royton, who entertain Werneth.
Current form suggests this one should go in favour of the visitors, but Paddock paid man Luke Procter will be in particularly determined mood after being dismissed – somewhat controversially – on 99 against Radcliffe last Sunday.
Onlookers were convinced that Radcliffe pro Anwar Ul-Haq’s delivery was going over the stumps, but the leg before decision was given and the visitors held on for victory.
Werneth’s hopes of a top-five finish and place in next season’s LCB Cup are fading, so a win against Heywood at the Coppice tomorrow is essential if they are to stay in the hunt.
Crompton host leaders Norden, Royton travel to the season’s surprise packages, Clifton, and Oldham are away to reigning champions Monton and Weaste.
TOMORROW: Ashton v Littleborough; Clifton v Royton; Crompton v Norden; Middleton v Radcliffe; Milnrow v Walsden; Monton and Weaste v Oldham; Unsworth v Rochdale; Werneth v Heywood.
SUNDAY: Heywood v Unsworth; Littleborough v Middleton; Norden v Monton and Weaste; Oldham v Crompton; Radcliffe v Ashton; Rochdale v Milnrow; Royton v Werneth; Walsden v Clifton. Matches start at 1pm.
