Underdogs will give it their best shot

Uppermill fired up to battle powerful Bamford

CRICKET: UPPERMILL skipper Alex Griffiths goes into the Tanner Cup final against Bamford Fieldhouse on Sunday (1.30pm) admitting the odds are stacked against his side.

Despite being awarded home advantage – Bamford won the toss, but their ground is unavailable – Uppermill are definitely the underdogs.

But apart from Mark Berry (other commitments), they have a full squad from which to choose.

Griffiths said: “There is no getting away from the fact that Bamford Fieldhouse are by far the best team in the Saddleworth League. We have to stick together throughout the match and try to concentrate on playing our best cricket.

“It should be a great game and we will give it our all.”

Bamford saw off Hollinwood in the last round to clinch their place in the final.

Uppermill, meanwhile, came through a nail-biting semi-final against Green-field to progress courtesy of a four-wicket home triumph.

The contest had to be repeated after Greenfield - who won the first encounter - were found to have insufficient documents to allow for a stand-in pro.

This time the visitors were bowled out for 169 before a rollercoaster reply saw the hosts need 26 from six overs at which stage a six and a four from Griffiths tipped the balance.

Bamford chairman Andy Barton is also expecting a tasty encounter.

He said: “We are looking forward to the game - let’s hope the weather stays fine.

“We had no problem at all with the idea of conceding home advantage because we have a very good relationship with Uppermill.”

League action takes place tomorrow when Bamford will look to extend their six-point lead over Heyside.

Tomorrow: Saddleworth v Stayley; Bamford Fieldhouse v Glodwick; Greenfield v Moorside; Heyside v Friarmere; Droylsden v Uppermill; Hollinwood v Austerlands.

Sunday (Tanner Cup final): Uppermill v Delph.