Clayton aiming to topple top dogs (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Premier leaders present biggest test of Clayton campaign

5:30pm Thursday 9th February 2012 in Pennine League By Mark Strother

Mid-table Clayton face their toughest assignment of the season when they travel to take on Pennine League leaders Drighlington tomorrow.

Drighlington have won all but one of their 11 PREMIER DIVISION fixtures to date, amassing a whopping 334 points along the way.

So it will need a top-notch team performance if Clayton are to emerge victorious, assuming the fixture beats the continuing freezing temperatures.

Meanwhile, West Bowling are involved in a massive ‘four pointer’ as they host fellow strugglers St Joseph’s.

Ricky Helliwell needs a team of leaders when his side take to the field at the Bankfoot Oval, particularly as Jonny Summers is out with a broken arm.

But in Nigel Halmshaw, Richard Lumb and Ryan Padgett, the Bowling coach certainly has the men to step up to the mark.

Wibsey Warriors are at home to third-placed Sharlston Rovers knowing that a win could lift them into the top half of the table.

The Warriors will need influential half-back Andy Robinson firing on all cylinders and fliers Nick Fontaine and Danny Belcher to hit top form.

Birkenshaw have a chance to close the gap on their DIVISION ONE promotion rivals when they entertain second-placed Crigglestone All Blacks.

Coach Jason Hirst will have welcomed the recent enforced break as he attempts to select from a fully fit squad.

But Paul Bancroft is still awaiting his opportunity to take to the field after returning from injury.

DIVISION TWO offers the prospect of some big derby games as Wyke welcome fierce rivals and leaders Brighouse Rangers to the Recreation Ground and bottom side West Bowling A take on neighbours Odsal Sedbergh.

Third-placed Undercliffe Wildboars travel to mid-table Wetherby Bulldogs in DIVISION SIX aiming to keep pace with top two Hanging Heaton and Sherburn Bears.

Centre Paul Cross is doubtful with a damaged leg but in-form Danny Brown is ready to step in, while Karl Walker and Josh Jepson both return after injury.