Bradfield seek revenge over Cromer in Norfolk Alliance Division One showdown

North Norfolk rivals Cromer and Bradfield are gearing up for a derby to savour tomorrow in Norfolk Alliance Division One.

There will be more than just local bragging rights at stake, with both sides challenging hard for promotion to the Premier Division.

Bradfield took over at the top of the table at the weekend after a 94-run win at morning leaders Mattishall while Cromer are third – seven points behind them but with a game in hand – following an ultimately frustrating winning draw against Brooke.

Add to that the revenge factor – Bradfield were heavily beaten at Cromer earlier in the season – and all the ingredients are there for a fascinating game of cricket.

'We always enjoy playing Cromer because there is a good friendly rivalry there – but obviously the current position of the two teams makes it even more special,' said Bradfield skipper Ed Botwright.

'It was a proud moment when we went top at the weekend – but all the lads know there is still of work to be done, starting on Saturday. Cromer are going well too so it should be a really good game.'

He added: 'To be honest I wasn't expecting us to be challenging for promotion at the start of the season. We had lost one or two players and I thought we were a bit light on the bowling front but full credit to the lads, they have done brilliantly. We started slowly but everything has started to click recently.'

Opposite number Davies, who scored an unbeaten century on Saturday, is also relishing the challenge of a promotion showdown against his club's near neighbours.

'It's one we are all looking forward to,' he said. 'We beat them comfortably at home but they have obviously improved a lot since then and it's going to be a really tough game. We are in a good position, as we have a game in hand on the sides above us – but we can't afford too many slip-ups.'

In the Premier Division, title challengers Fakenham host Old Buckenham, who have enjoyed a fine campaign to date. Terry Perry's side stand third in the table, have won the Lady Mary Trophy and are also in the final of the NACO Cup.

'They have had a good season,' said Fakenham captain Harvey. 'With guys like Robbie Austin and their overseas player, who has done well for them, they've got the makings of a good side. They're a bit like Sprowston, having come up from Division One and nobody really knew what they were going to do.

'They shocked us earlier in the season and almost beat us before we won with nine wickets down, so facing them is a difficult prospect.'

Leaders Norwich host Acle at Ingham.

Rollesby saw their lead in Norfolk League Division One cut after last weekend's defeat to East Harling and tomorrow they will aim to get back on track against Cringleford Lodge.

West Norfolk League leaders Birch-am are at home to Castle Rising.