Cricket side Furness, who currently have an 11-point lead at the top, are favourites to lift the Cumbria League’s Premier Division title.
That’s based on their present advantage and the remaining fixtures in which they only have to play one of their rivals for the championship.
By contrast, Keswick and Cockermouth have three big games each and outsiders Carlisle also have three.
The big test (certainly on paper) for the current leaders comes on August 28 when they host Cockermouth who, at the moment, are 17 points behind but do have a game in hand.
But Cockermouth face a big game on Saturday when they take on second-placed Keswick at Fitz Park, a clash which could have a big bearing on how the title battle plays out.
Cockermouth complete the season on September 18 with a home game with Carlisle, currently fourth and 20 points adrift of Furness. Keswick have to play Carlisle home and away.
Carlisle, who probably need the weather to be kind to them and not so forthcoming for their rivals, have a home game tomorrow against Cleator.
Furness, who lost the Higson Cup final to Workington on Sunday, have an early opportunity for retribution as they host the West Cumbrians.
The battle to avoid the drop is also pretty intense with Haverigg (58) probably going to be safe but watching activity below – Dalton (48), Whitehaven (43) and Lindal (41).
Lindal do have a game in hand but it is at title-chasing Cockermouth and will be played on Sunday, September 5.
Key games at the bottom on Saturday – Dalton v Wigton; Haverigg v Lindal; Whitehaven v Millom.
