Acid test for Royton and Werneth

CRICKET:

TWO of our local clubs will this weekend bid to show that reigning Lake Garage CLL champions Norden can be beaten despite their formidable reputation.

Royton have first crack tomorrow when they travel to Woodhouse Lane.

And 24 hours later, Werneth have home advantage at the Coppice.

Royton entertain Radcliffe on Sunday, while Werneth are at Monton and Weaste 24 hours earlier.

With professional Luke Procter on Lancashire duty (and to some effect, too), Royton have booked two stand-in professionals for the weekend.

Saddleworth stalwart Peter Skuse is on duty tomorrow, while Bootle’s Michael Swart, a Dutch-Australian who captains the Joondalup side which Royton overseas amateur Chris Hutchinson also plays for, steps in on Sunday.

Oldham entertain Heywood before travelling to Unsworth, while Crompton are at home to Unsworth followed by an away match at Clifton.

TOMORROW: Ashton v Rochdale; Crompton v Unsworth; Littleborough v Clifton; Middleton v Milnrow; Monton and Weaste v Werneth; Norden v Royton; Oldham v Heywood; Radcliffe v Walsden.

SUNDAY: Clifton v Crompton; Heywood v Monton and Weaste; Milnrow v Ashton; Rochdale v Middleton; Royton v Radcliffe; Unsworth v Oldham; Walsden v Littleborough; Werneth v Walsden.

Matches start at 1.30pm.