Royton and Werneth to battle in early derby

CRICKET: OF our four teams in the Lake Garage CLL Championship, Royton and Werneth have made the best start to the season.

So something has to give when the teams clash in a derby showdown at the Paddock on Sunday (1.30pm).

Werneth began with a home win against Radcliffe and victory at Crompton. Their last match, at home to Monton and Weaste, ended in a rain-affected draw.

Royton overcame Oldham on the opening day before losing at Unsworth and regaining the winning thread at Ashton last weekend.

Luke Procter was a stand-in professional then, but contracted pro Ben Dunk arrived in the country yesterday and the Australian will play at home to Monton and Weaste tomorrow.

Werneth warm up for Sunday’s derby with a home game against Unsworth tomorrow.

Crompton are still looking for their first win of the season, but the recent arrival of professional Michael Pote should have given them a lift. He and his new team mates are in action at Radcliffe tomorrow and at home to Ashton the following day.

Oldham are still trying to find their feet after building a new team from scratch, but a visit to Ashton tomorrow gives them their best chance so far of a first win. Sunday’s trip to Unsworth looks tougher.

Crompton’s overseas amateur Denis Louis arrives next Tuesday.