The last fixture of the Holmen Iggesund Cumberland ARL season takes place at Egremont’s Gillfoot tonight.
League champions Distington take on Cockermouth in the final of the prestigious Firpress Printers Cumberland Cup (ko 7pm)
Traditionally the main trophy of the season a large crowd is expected to put the 2023 season to bed.
In some ways it is something of a mismatch with champions and top four runners-up Distington pitted against a Cockermouth side who have played very little in recent weeks.
But the Highfield side are not short in confidence, despite their lack of regular match practice together.
Coach Jeff Clare said: “We set off the season really well but then ran into problems losing our rugby union lads so we had to pull out of fixtures and lost our chances of the top four.
“But we had booked our place in the final on merit and we have put together what we consider to be a strong side for the final capable of giving a good account of ourselves.
“It has helped with the final being played on a Friday night so we are all looking forward to taking part in a prestige final against what is a very good Distington side.”
Distington coach Aiden Worthington says: “It was disappointing to lose the top four final in extra time so this gives us a chance to make amends.
“We won’t be underestimating Cockermouth, though, as they have some very good players and I’m sure it’s going to be a good game.
“I have seven or eight teenagers in the squad of 18 which will be more good experience ahead of our step up to the National Conference.
“It will also be sad to be saying goodbye to the Cumberland ARL after 10 good years and we wish the competition all the very best in the future.”
So far the League’s main trophies have gone to three different teams – Maryport won the E Lamb and Son Amateur Cup; Distington were the League winners and Wath Brow A won the Top Four final.
