DARWEN begin their quest for a hat-trick of Northern League titles at home to Netherfield tomorrow (1pm).

And in theory they should have a stronger team that carried off a second successive championship last year as Neil Cordingley returns from a spell as pro at Whalley.

Keith Semple is back for a fifth season as professional and will come face to face with Pakistan Test star Asif Mujtaba, who is subbing for Netherfield.

While focused on a third successive championship, Darwen chairman Peter Lamster is also hoping the club can add cup honours to the cabinet in 2004.

He said: "We're going for a hat-trick but we hope we can progress in the cups this year because we haven't done as well in them recently.

"It would be good for revenue. As well as the national, Lancashire and league competitions, there is also a 20/20 this season so it's exciting."