BRETT Pelser believes Rawtenstall’s faith in youth can pay off this season with a sustained challenge for a top five place.

Rawtenstall are up to sixth in the table after recording their second victory of the season on Sunday when they got the better of Accrington by seven runs in a low scoring contest at the Worswick Memorial Ground.

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And Pelser, who scored 24 in the home side’s 123 all out, believes the side is starting to click into gear ahead of Saturday’s league trip to Ramsbottom and a re-match with Accrington in the first round of the Worsley Cup on Sunday.

“I think we are just looking for the perfect game,” said the club’s professional.

“We have played very well in parts so far but have not been able to string it all together.

“We have actually played some good cricket.

“It was pleasing to get one over on Accrington, I think that is the first time I have ever beaten them and they have been one of the top sides in the league for the past few seasons so it shows we are going in the right direction.

“Our start has been a bit up and down but we are getting there now.

“I think this is a really open league this season and if you can get some momentum then you really can go on a run. The other side is if you are struggling for wins then it can go the other way so it is important for us to keep this run going.”

As for blooding youngsters, something Pelser talks passionately about, he believes Rawtenstall can afford to sacrifice points for plaudits when it comes to youth development.

“Personally for me it is about bringing the young players through,” said the South African.

“What we don’t want to do is rely on the senior guys to do everything and when they have moved on the young lads struggle because they haven’t been given a chance.

“I know results are important but we want to bring players through as well and so we may lose a game or two because we are giving these lads a chance but hopefully that means the club’s future is bright.

“Sam Kershaw has impressed me. He scored his first Lancashire League century last season and he got another one as well earlier this season.

“He is a phenomenal talent. He is only 19 and is already batting at number three for us. We are not putting pressure on him by putting him into that role - we want him to enjoy his cricket.”