Derby fixtures add touch of spice

CRICKET: WERNETH and Oldham, both without a win in the Lake Garage CLL so far this season, will aim to put matters right this weekend.

Life in the Premier Division has proved to be a good deal tougher for Werneth than during last summer’s Championship-winning campaign. Four defeats in a row and the loss for the season of influential all-rounder Joe Taylor have already started the danger signals flashing at the Coppice. A victory, sooner rather than later, is a must for Matt Taylor’s men.

But that is easier said than done: second-placed Littleborough visit Werneth tomorrow, while Sunday sees a derby duel with fourth-placed Royton at the Paddock.

Current form points to a home win for Royton, but derby games in this area often throw up surprises and Werneth won’t lack motivation.

It has been a difficult week for Royton following the death of club stalwart Trevor Lewis, but there is no doubt that skipper Denny Hulme will have looked at this weekend’s fixtures with some relish.

Before Sunday’s derby, Royton visit a Rochdale team two places below them in the table.

As for Oldham, something radical has to happen if they are to avoid a repeat of last season’s difficulties. The signs so far have not been good, but skipper Rashid Hussain is a positive personality who will be trying to get the best out of his team.

Oldham face a tough Championship derby at third-placed Crompton on Sunday, before which they go to leaders Milnrow.

Crompton, for whom overseas amateur Denis Louis returns on Sunday, visit Ashton tomorrow.

Having won three of their opening four fixtures, Crompton will be hoping the forecast rain holds off