NORTHOP and Brymbo have an advantage over the other sides occupying spots in the top flight.
While both are still in the mix to claim this season’s Premier Division title, the duo also have the benefit of seeing their second XIs plying their trade as high as Division One this summer.
This means the step-up for promoted players is a manageable one and it’s Northop Seconds who are leading the way in Division One.
“We have got a good young side,” said first team skipper Bart Ryan-Beswick.
Brymbo Seconds are at the foot of Division One, but they have been competitive since last season’s promotion and they claimed their first win with last week’s comfortable 92-run win over Abergele.
Joss Roberts’ 92 not out was a big boost for Brymbo, as were five catches from Mike Paletta.
Brymbo could climb off the bottom if they defeat visitors Dolgellau tomorrow, while Northop host Pontblyddyn.
Meanwhile, when it comes to the first teams, it’s another crucial weekend of Premier Division action.
Brymbo, beaten by just 20 runs away to leaders Mochdre last time out, are on their travels again for their meeting with dangerous Gwersyllt Park.
“Gwersyllt will be tough. They’ve showed up against the big teams this year,” said Brymbo skipper Dan Parry.
“They’ve got a few lads that we know very well and they can’t be taken lightly.”
Park skipper Iroshan De Silva’s not holding out much hope of winning the toss. “I’ve captained Gwersyllt Park for three years and I have won only three tosses!” quipped De Silva.
“The boys have said can you send someone else in to do the toss!”
Gwersyllt Park anticipate being close to full strength and De Silva added: “It’s not easy and every club’s at the same level. But we go in every game focused.”
Northop, whose clash with defending champions St Asaph was abandoned due to the heavy rain, are heading to Denbigh.
“They’re probably similar to us at the minute,” said Ryan-Beswick.
“No-one’s pulling up flags, are they? Look, they’re a good team on their day.
“They have got very good players and Harrison Jones can win them games. It won’t be easy.”
Mochdre, who play host to Llandudno tomorrow, now hold a sizeable 29-point lead at the top, while six points separate second-placed Brymbo from Northop, in fourth.
“Mochdre, they’re finding ways to win. It’s what good teams do,” said Ryan-Beswick.
Former skipper Richie Walker has left Northop to sign for Port Sunlight.
It’s been a testing start to the season for Gresford, who find themselves occupying a spot in the bottom-two.
However, things will certainly look much improved if they can garner a positive result at home to Menai Bridge tomorrow. Skipper Matt Thompson said: “A really disappointing defeat last Saturday, another big collapse ruining our chances. This week Tom Crewe and Chris Mullock return.”
The remaining Premier Division match sees St Asaph at home to Bangor.
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