MARTINSTOWN and Dorchester will lock horns in what is a crucial clash for both sides in the Dorset Funeral Plan Premier League tomorrow.

The two teams are set to do battle at Lower Ashton Farm (1pm) in a game that could have huge implications at both ends of the league table.

The county town side got themselves back in the hunt for the crown with a dramatic victory over leaders Swanage last time out, sealing a one-wicket triumph with just three balls to spare.

That cut the deficit between Dorchester, who currently sit third in the pile, and the table-toppers, from 28 points to just 17 with half of the season remaining.

While Martinstown, who have won just two games from their first nine outings in the league this term, were well-beaten by second-placed Broadstone last time out and are just one place above bottom side Shillingstone in the table.

But speaking ahead of the derby tussle, home skipper Ed Nichols is confident his side can turn the tide against one of the league’s form teams.

He told Echosport: “It’s always one we look forward to and it’s probably our biggest game of the season in a way. It’s one that everyone will get up for.

“In these kind of games the form book goes out of the window and it’s a case of who turns up on the day.”

Mike Kennedy-Barnard and Steve Bishop miss out this weekend for Martinstown, meaning John Stewart comes in and Ben Doidge is set to make his Saturday debut for the club.

Asked about Dorchester, Nichols added: “They have had a good run of results and a settled team, which makes a big difference in this league. We are kind of a bit envious of that I guess.

“We will just treat it as it comes and it could go in any direction. I could not call it at this stage.”

Dorchester club captain Simon Mitchem remained tight-lipped on who he thought were favourites to land the league crown at present, but admitted the race for the top spot is “wide open”.

“I’ll be honest, I think there are a few teams in with a great chance,” he added.

“At this moment it’s still absolutely wide open.

“Everyone is playing well for us and winning always helps. We have had consistent availability and that does help as well.

“We are confident in our own ability that we can have a good season and challenge for the league.”

On tomorrow’s showdown, he added: “It’s a bit of a local derby but we are keen to go there, focus on what we are doing and, if we do what we have been doing over the last few weeks, we are confident in getting the result we want.

“We definitely won’t be taking them lightly that’s for sure. They have got some good players and it’s not the easiest place to go and play.

“It is quite a small ground and they do tend to play well at home, so we will be taking nothing for granted.”

Dan Morris is set to come in for Dorchester after an impressive innings for the second team last weekend.