Birstall have a critical weekend ahead having seen their Central Yorkshire League season take a distinct turn for the better with a shock, Connor Williams (104no) inspired victory over champions Methley.

They go to New Farnley in the Premier Division tomorrow and then turn their attention to the Jack Hampshire Trophy on Sunday with a rearranged second-round tie at Division One leaders Hunslet Nelson.

The Leeds Road men’s cup form – they are already through to the Heavy Woollen Cup quarter-finals, has been in marked contrast to their league efforts.

But with veteran Paul Blakeley (5-29) back in form against Methley, things are looking brighter all round.

The same cannot be said of Liversedge, who lost by 123 runs at home to New Farnley – Danny Broadbent’s unbeaten 66 out of 120 proving the only bright spot.

They currently hold just a one-point advantage over tomorrow’s hosts Ossett but with both sides yet to record an outright win, something may have to give at last.

Liversedge are back in action on Sunday with a visit from Townville in the Jack Hampshire Cup, while Buttershaw St Paul’s will be attempting a giant-killing in this competition when they go to Premier Division outfit New Farnley for what will undoubtedly be a tough tie.

Buttershaw face a tough weekend, for they can expect an awkward mid-table Division One game tomorrow at home to Woodkirk.

Both sides have fallen a long way behind the leaders and desperately need a run of wins if they are to force their way into the promotion race.

Only one Jack Hampshire Trophy match survived the rain last Sunday, Wrenthorpe (74-0) beating Caribbean (71) by ten wickets in a match that lasted just 31 overs in all.

Most of the remaining games have been rescheduled for this weekend.