THE first Lancashire League clash of the titans won’t decide the title race in just the second week of the season, but Ramsbottom’s Tom Parton admits a victory for his side over defending champions Lowerhouse can lay down a statement of intent.

The top two from 2014 meet at Acre Bottom tomorrow with both sides heading into the clash, the first of a double header, with winning starts under their belts.

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But Parton, who admits he was delighted with the way Ramsbottom performed in their crushing victory over Rishton last weekend, admits beating the champions will be an excellent start to the season.

He said: “It won’t decide the league whether we win or lose tomorrow but it can lay down a bit of a marker.

“It can also help us build momentum.

“I think last time we won the league we went 20-something games unbeaten and that can always happen in the Lancashire League. Once you get on a roll it can carry you a long way.

“We have had some really close games with Lowerhouse over the past couple of seasons and I am sure it will be no different this time.”

Parton, who made 20 opening the batting last weekend, also praised Ramsbottom professional Daryn Smit after the South African hit an unbeaten 137 to spearhead the opening day success.

Parton added: “It was great to see him in fine form straight away with the bat.

“He is a big player for us, not just on the field but with what he does during our coaching sessions.

“He obviously made a very impressive hundred last week and it’s great to see him firing early on.”

Lancashire League Saturday fixtures: Accrington v Haslingden, Burnley v Enfield, East Lancs v Colne, Nelson v Bacup, Ramsbottom v Lowerhouse, Rawtenstall v Church, Todmorden v Rishton All matches start at 1pm