MATTHEW Mott reckons appearances can be deceiving - especially when it comes to the EW Cartons Lancashire League table, writes PETER WHITE.

And the Lowerhouse professional has a point.

A quick glance at the table shows Lowerhouse languishing in ninth place, a massive 36 points behind leaders Nelson.

But, in real terms under the new rules, that is 'only' a difference of three wins.

And, with clubs preparing for the season's first league double-header since the opening weeks, Lowerhouse have a golden opportunity to make significant progress.

But Mott knows it isn't going to be easy as Lowerhouse go to Haslingden tomorrow before entertaining table-topping Nelson at the West End on Sunday.

With second-placed Rishton 20 points ahead of the 'house - less than a two-win turnover - the whole picture could change dramatically over the weekend.

"If a few results go your way you can easily leapfrog other teams, especially when there is a double programme," said the Aussie star enjoying his second taste of Lancashire League cricket.

"It's a good challenge for us and we are looking forward to it. "We're missing a couple of players but Chris Bleazard is able to play which is good because we thought he was going to be unavailable.

"We beat Hassy last time but beating them at their own place might be another thing.

"As for Nelson, hopefully we will be a bit smarter against Roger (Harper) than we were last time.

"He knows his field so well for these wickets and we might have to do something different against him.

"We will be trying things but whether they come off or not, we won't know until Sunday night."

Mott had a great day against Haslingden earlier in the season, scoring a century before claiming the prize scalp of Jack Simpson with the ball as Lowerhouse cantered to a clear-cut win.

But Harper destroyed them when they visited Seedhill, taking 8-54.

Providing Nelson do not run away with things, the new points system seems certain to ensure a lot of teams remain in contention for honours.

That's how Mott sees it, adding: "A lot can also depend on the weather. We managed to beat the rain last week to win when others drew."

Tomorrow's games: Accrington v Todmorden; Bacup v Rishton; Burnley v Ramsbottom; Church v Colne; East Lancs v Rawtenstall; Haslingden v Lowerhouse; Nelson v Enfield.

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