There’s only one place to be on Saturday for Cumbrian rugby union enthusiasts – Warwick Road in Carlisle.
On a blank weekend of League rugby the Cumbria County Cup semi-final between Carlisle and Aspatria easily takes top billing.
Unfortunately holders Penrith received a bye to the final when opponents Upper Eden pulled out of their scheduled semi-final.
The Pennine Park side decided they did not want to risk further injuries in a hard-fought local derby as they battle to stay in Regional 2 North – and recent victories to move out of the relegation zone suggest it was an effective move.
The tie that goes ahead at Warwick Road will be of particular interest to hosts Carlisle.
They have gained promotion at the first time of asking from Counties 1 Cumbria and will get some idea as how they measure up to the level above.
Aspatria are now an established side at that level – on course for a top three finish until the last month – but still comfortably in the top half of the table.
The Black Reds will start favourites but won’t forget how they were humbled by Upper Eden last season when the Pennine Park side were playing at a level lower.
Three senior officials will be in charge at Warwick Road – Martin Maughan in the middle with Martin Denvir and Jim Donald on the touchlines.
Teenager Archie Harding got good reviews following his officiating in last week’s Newcastle Falcons DPP games and he will be in charge of a big game at Mint Bridge between Kendal 2nds and Firwood Waterloo 2nds.
Ambleside are hoping they, too, can fit in a game with another Kendal senior side as they rebuild, and were left disappointed last week by a Wigton cry-off.
Before all that there’s a big game on Friday night at Winters Park in the Women’s NC2 North when Penrith Ladies host title-chasing Keswick Ladies with Al McDowell in the middle.
