CAN Lowerhouse lift their first ever Lancashire League title in 1996?

That is the burning question on everybody's lips at Liverpool Road as Lowerhouse prepare for tomorrow's derby against fierce rivals Burnley at Turf Moor.

After seven wins, and just one defeat, all-rounder Matt Hope believes it could be their season.

"I think the Burnley game, probably more than any other, will be a pointer for us," said Hope.

"We haven't won at Burnley since 1992 and a result tomorrow would be very sweet. It will be a great test of character for all the lads. It would also guarantee us at least a share of top spot tomorrow night and that is really vital.

"It is always a fierce contest between Lowerhouse and Burnley and a big derby for both sides. But we are the side in form and we are confident.

"The form book goes out the window because Burnley will be up for it. But everybody in the Lowerhouse side is making things happen. That is really important for us because every player seems to be chipping in with wickets and runs. We've really put pressure on sides with our fielding as well.

"The attitude in our camp is fantastic and everybody is pulling for each other. The spirit has been brilliant. I think that underlines why we've had the success we've had so far."

Lowerhouse, of course, flattered to deceive last season when they topped the table for the first month of the campaign. Then the slide began as they finished the season in sixth place.

But with professional Shawn Flegler in devastating form with the bat, Hope added: "Shawn has returned to us fresh and is in great nick with the bat. He threatened to score some big tons last season. But his two centuries this season were great knocks. Her is maturing and getting stronger all the time.

"With everybody supporting the professional, which they have done so far, then that could be enough to sustain our challenge."

While Lowerhouse battle it out at Turf Moor, their nearest rivals, Ramsbottom, will be searching for more championship points against Bacup at Acre Bottom following last weekend's convincing four wicket win over Nelson.

And Todmorden, fresh from their six wicket over Burnley last weekend, are firing on all cylinders under the leadership of Aussie professional Daniel Marsh. They face a tough assignment against East Lancs at Alexandra Meadows.

Allan Donald's Rishton are favourites to overpower Church at Blackburn Road, while Haslingden should prove too strong for struggling local rivals Rawtenstall.

At the foot of the table, Accrington, boosted by their first win of the campaign against East Lancs, face a testing trip to Enfield.

Fixtures: Burnley v Lowerhouse, Church v Rishton, Colne v Nelson, East Lancs v Todmorden, Enfield v Accrington, Ramsbottom v Bacup, Rawtenstall v Haslingden.

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