Easton & Martyr Worthy reach season crossroads

Easton & Martyr Worthy's season has reached the crossroads.

They must beat St Cross Symondians at the Royal Green Jackets ground tomorrow SAT to retain any interest in the Southern Electric Premir League, Division 2 championship.

And pull out all the stops to beat high-flying Findon in West Sussex on Sunday to remain in what could be the last ever National Village Championship competition.

Easton have spluttered in recent weeks and, after suffering two defeats in their last three games, are lagging 35 points behind St Cross in third spot.

St Cross, with a 15-point advantage over Old Tauntonians & Romsey, are without Fergus Haycock and Ben Adams, but may be able to call upon Hampshire's Jon Francis.

Findon, whom Easton visit on Sunday, have won five of their last six matches and lie second in the Sussex Invitation League.

The Cricketer International magazine, who organise the village competition, have warned that, if no sponsor comes forward, the National Championships will be scrapped after this season.

Ian Tulk (groin strain) is expected to return for Old Tauntonians against Lymington whose season has gone pear-shaped.

The New Forest club won its first three matches - only to lose five of their last six !

Captain Dan Peacock (broken finger) remains on the sidelines for tomorrow's tough visit to second placed Old Tauntonians & Romsey.

Lymington II entertain OT's at the Sports Ground, aiming to cement third place in County Division 1.

In-form Paul Edwards, who has scored 440 runs this term, is a key absentee for Hursley Park, who face a tricky test at revitalised Burridge.

Zimbabwean Gary Brent plays for Burridge, who have announced a sponsorship deal with Taylor Made.

Tim Richings is due back for Sparsholt at Gosport Borough, but Ollie Kelly (shoulder) is doubtful for the visit to the relegation haunted harbourside club.

Winless Purbrook will almost certainly be relegated if they fail to beat United Services at Purbrook Heath.