I THOUGHT that the only thing I had in common with Superman was the fact that we both pretend to be journalists.

Now I admit that I can't fly through the air and I'm not in the least bit scared of Krytonite.

But my actions on Friday night drew up more similarities with the man in tights.

Having already committed myself to Burnley and District League's Harry Wood Cup final, I got a late SOS call from Ray Ryland saying I was his last hope and would I present the trophies at the Warburton's Youth League presentation night.

Slight problem as both were being held simultaneously. But after Ray assured my they'd hang on, I accepted the challenge.

Giving that it was pouring down, standing pitch side at Barden in my suit, shirt and tie was not a practical option.

So the suit trousers went under the waterproofs while the shirt and tie and polished shoes waited in the car. I also forgot my coat. Now comes the Superman bit.

For as soon as the final whistle blew, I dashed to the nearest phone box (I mean car) and after a mad clothes throwing melee I was 'prepared to present' even before Bill Nevison had handed over the winning trophy to Michelin.

A 30mph chase through the streets of Burnley followed and I was soon at Turf Moor's Hargreaves Stand, slightly slower than the speed of light.

But even the great super heroes have their down days and Super Steve was beaten by arch villain -- this time in the form of former Clarets hero Les Thompson.

"It's alright Steve," said Ray cooly. "I've got Les Thompson to presents the trophies."

"Not a problem Ray. Not a problem."

Every now and again a little gem raises its head on my weekly tour of East Lancashire.

And this is up there with the best of them. Step forward West End keeper Mick Holden.

Mick had been a key member of the side which marched all the way to the final of the Birtwistle Cup -- not bad for a side who had been relegated from the Blackburn Combination's Premier League.

Thinking that the final was to be held on Darwen's Anchor Ground on a different day, Mick booked a family holiday so that he could play.

However, when it was announced the match was to be switched to Ewood Park at the Combination's presentation evening on a new date, Mick took a course of actions that was to cost him a small fortune.

For first Mick had to fork out another £300 to fly out to the South of France a day later and, allegedly, buy his wife some new furniture just to keep her happy.

But after helping West End to a shock 4-1 win against Ewood Amateurs it seems it was money well spent.

He was also named the club's player of the season into the bargain.