Bowring Relishing derby showdown

Bowring have slipped down the table after back-to-back away defeats at Newport and Chester Road.

But Bowring skipper Lawson is hoping a clash against their neighbours can inspire his side.

"It's a friendly rivalry but it's always a bit more competitive when we play them," said Lawson.

"We got eight points from the two away games which was a bit disappointing because I thought we deserved more. I don't think it was a reflection of how well we played, but that's the nature of the league with it being so tight.

"I'd like eight winners against Bayley. I think that would be a good result because they are a good team who are playing well."

Bowring are forced into one change with Glyn Hayward coming in to replace the unavailable James Grimston.

Another derby clash sees Meole Brace go to Hanwood for the sides' first league meeting in almost 20 years. But they have already met this season with Hanwood claiming the bragging rights in the County Cup.

"I don't think we were ready for that and on the night they deserved it," said Meole Brace skipper Mark Thomas. "Darren Wellings plays for us but he has two brothers and a nephew in the Hanwood team.

"There is a rivalry and there will be no quarter asked or given. But it will be played in a good spirit and hopefully we can perform better than we did in the cup fixture.

"They have made a solid start and their home green is a bit of a fortress. It will certainly be a difficult match."

Elsewhere, Chester Road will look to maintain their impressive home form when they host Burway.

Second-placed Ifton go to Wem USC looking for a win to take them back top, while Hadley USC go to Newport and Wrockwardine Wood entertain Bylet.