RUDRA Singh carries the weight of Haslingden's title expectations on his shoulders in a crucial EW Cartons Lancashire League weekend.

The Indian all-rounder has been drafted in for tomorrow's home game against Burnley and Sunday's tough trip to Ramsbottom.

Skipper Mark Griffin sees the two fixtures as "make or break" for his side.

"I can see the championship race going to the last game. And I do not think it will be decided this weekend.

"Two wins this weekend and we would be well on our way.

"And it would be nice if East Lancs slipped up.

"But Burnley will be out for revenge after the Worsley Cup final and Ramsbottom will certainly be up for Sunday's game," said Griffin.

Challengers East Lancs also face a tricky trip to Nelson tomorrow to face their former professional Alan Dawson.

Haslingden could, in theory, lift the trophy at Ramsbottom should results go in their favour. The Bentgate men would need to be 11 points clear at the end of the weekend's fixtures.

And that would be an ironic ending following the switch of Jack Simpson and Steve Dearden from Ramsbottom to Haslingden at the start of this season.

"It would be nice for Jack and 'Dash' but it would also be great for the club," added Griffin.

The Haslingden players have been confident of their own ability from the word go.

So much so that the troops stand to land a sizeable bet should Haslingden win their 11th championship.

Teams have started to bunch underneath the top two.

Enfield travel to Bacup looking for their ninth consecutive win without professional Shane Lee who has stayed at the Oval with the Aussies.

Sussex's West Indies star Vasbert Drakes has been drafted in for both weekend games.

Colne travel to Todmorden, Ramsbottom travel to Accrington and Lowerhouse have, on paper, a comfortable game against Church.

Rawtenstall have secured the services of Lancashire's Darren Shadford as sub-professional for their trip to Rishton.

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