TODMORDEN have the task of trying to deny Ramsbottom an unprecedented three-in-a-row when they clash in the Lancashire League Second XI Cup final on Saturday.

In a re-run of the 2005 final, Todmorden host the current league leaders who have dominated the competition in recent years.

But Tod's stand-in skipper, Lee Pearson, says his side don't fear the cup holders - eventhough they have lifted the trophy four times in the last five years.

Pearson, who replaces the unavailable David Whitehead as captain, said his side can take heart from having Rammy on the ropes in that final two years ago.

"We were a bit disappointed because we thought that it was a game we could have and should have won," recalls the opening bowler. "Ramsbottom are the team to beat but we don't fear them. We are a better side than we were two years ago and I think we have a very good chance of winning."

Pearson said his side's blend of youth and experience, and a vocal following, could make it an uncomfortable day for Rammy, who are also the reigning Second XI League champions.

He said: "We have a number of young players who have come in to the side this season and they have done very well."

Pearson will be hoping Adam Highley can repeat his semi final heroics where he took five wickets for seven runs and scored 60 as Todmorden stunned Burnley.

But he will also be looking for the likes of pace bowlers Oliver Wood and John Campbell, veteran opener David Hatton and young batsmen Alistair Harrison and James Crossley to rise to the challenge.

Ramsbottom skipper, Andy Dalby, who himself is new to the captaincy role, will be looking to repeat the feats of predecessor Brian Taylor who led Ramsbottom to success in 2005 and again last year.

He said: "I suppose the pressure is on me and the team because we are the cup holders.

"We are definitely up there to be shot down but we have coped with that pressure in the past and I am sure we can do it again.

"Brian was a terrific captain and has left us with a very good side but we have carried on from where he left off."

"Todmorden have struggled a bit in the league but they are a great cup side as they proved in the semi final.

"Everyone expected Burnley to win but Todmorden proved otherwise so we know what they are capable of and respect them for that."

The final promises to be an intriguing battle with Todmorden's strong bowling line-up looking to get the better of Ramsbottom batting strength in depth.

The captain will be looking to the likes of Rob Reid and Chris Wood to put the runs on the board but have the likes of young Jack Walmsley and Dalby himself, who is leading wicket taker with 28, to get some early scalps.

"We bat well down the order and Todmorden have some good bowlers. It should be an intriguing battle but most of all I hope it is a nice day so we can see some good cricket."