Lancashire League weekend preview

JOE Scuderi could have been forgiven a hint of nostalgia when the Jennings Worsley Cup draw not only handed his new club Colne a home derby - but also meant he was to face his old Nelson team-mates for the first time since his return to the Lancashire League.

And the man who spent six successful seasons at Seedhill couldn't resist a mischievous chuckle over the fact that the cup tie is due to be played at the Horsfield the day before he and Colne are scheduled to visit Seedhill in the league!

"I reckon there's a bit of fate involved there," laughed the Aussie who reckons his double date with destiny and former team-mates this weekend is no big deal.

"It's going to be a tough weekend for us, but it should be a good one.

"They have been doing all right but I am more concerned with our form and I think we are playing pretty well."

Not least because of the derby rivalry between the clubs, much will be made of Scuderi playing against the team for whom he was professional from 1991-96.

But he hasn't had any stick from old friends and fans since the Worsley Cup draw threw up tomorrow's clash.

"I think a lot of people read too much into these things," he said.

"These are just two games we want to win.

"There's a semi-final to play for tomorrow and, on Sunday, we need to win to get in the top half and keep in touch.

"It doesn't really matter who we play. "We have shown we can play good cricket by beating Haslingden fairly easily. I know they lost again last week but they are still a good side.

"And we know we can do well against strong sides."

Nelson, who have a nine-point lead over East Lancs at the top of the table, certainly rank as strong opposition.

As expected, Roger Harper has settled in quickly at Seedhill and the leaders have made a flying start in the league, as well as winning at Church in the first round of the cup.

Scuderi's personal form could be a key factor, especially in Colne's push for cup honours tomorrow.

He has already notched over 300 league runs and claimed 20 wickets to stand high in the averages.

But life has been frustrating in the league with a number of draws as teams come to terms with the new rules.

The Aussie believes that makes the knockout - with the guarantee of a positive result - a better and more attractive proposition.

"It's been a bit tough (in the league). We've only lost one game but a few of the teams keep on batting right through the full 55 overs, and aren't backing themselves to bowl out the opposition," he said.

"At least you know there's going to be a result tomorrow and that's a big advantage for the Worsley Cup.

"It takes on a whole new meaning and I think it's a good idea to have restrictions on the bowlers. That means clubs have to have a bit of strength in depth.

"This year the cup is very different from the league and that's good."

It's been good so far for Colne, who beat Accrington in the first round.

And, despite playing down the confrontation, it will get even better for them and Scuderi if he can help his new side to put one over his old team tomorrow.

Surely there would be an extra sense of satisfaction in that.

Tomorrow's quarter-final ties (1.15pm start): Colne v Nelson; Todmorden v Ramsbottom; East Lancs v Bacup; Lowerhouse v Haslingden.

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