Morecambe-Lancaster derby set to have big say in title race

Morecambe captain Josh Dixon knows it is a make or break weekend for his side in the Northern Premier League.
Morecambe captain Josh Dixon.Morecambe captain Josh Dixon.
Morecambe captain Josh Dixon.

The Woodhill Lane side are two points clear at the top as they look to lift a championship they last won in 2006.

Dixon’s men have a huge double-header this weekend as second in the table Darwen visit Woodhill Lane on Saturday before the big bank holiday Monday derby against Lancaster at Lune Road on Monday.

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Dixon said: “It’s a crunch weekend but the kind you want to be involved in because it means you are in with a chance of winning something.

Lancaster captain Ben Simm.Lancaster captain Ben Simm.
Lancaster captain Ben Simm.

“There will be pressure but it’s the kind you want.

“We know two positive results will put us in with a great chance.”

The Morecambe skipper knows what is always an eagerly-anticipated derby has even more on the line this time around.

He said: “It’s the game you always look for in the fixtures and it’s even more key this weekend.

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“Darwen don’t play on Monday and it’s something we need to take advantage of.

“The losing draw at Leyland (last Saturday) was frustrating but we’re still in pole position.”

Lancaster, who first travel to St Annes on Saturday, won’t be there simply to make up the numbers however despite seemingly having little to play for.

Batsman Alex Metcalfe said: “Our form hasn’t been very good of late - we need to show a bit more character in our play.

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“Even though the season is winding down for us, this weekend and Monday give us a massive opportunity to have a real say in the league standings.

“Regardless of the situation a local derby is always a huge fixture.

“We aim to make it tough - there’ll be no rolling over come Monday.”

The derby on bank holiday Monday is a 12.30pm start at Lune Road.

Morecambe’s game against Darwen on Saturday is a 1pm start.