SUNDAY sees two of the best sides in the Bolton Association square up for what should be a thrilling Cross Cup final at Clifton Cricket Club.

League leaders Walshaw will be hoping to continue their hot winning streak while Elton know it is their last chance of silverware this season.

If the game needed any more spice, the two teams have met twice this season and both times it has gone to the last ball with the score at one each for wins.

It promises to be a cracker and Walshaw captain Rob Faulkner is eagerly anticipating the clash: "We are all looking forward to it. We have a good side and are playing with loads of confidence, myself included. If we can play to our potential, we won't be far from winning."

Rob believes the secret of his side's success is a long batting order, good strength in depth bowling wise and a strong team spirit: "We bat all the way down to number seven and our first and second change bowlers are bowling magnificent. We play well as a team and we don't rely on individuals."

Elton treasurer Mr Geoff Hall feels his side is very similar in this respect: "We don't rely on individuals. We all work well as a team and play to our strengths. We are a very young side, so hopefully youth will be on our side."

Both sides are free of any injuries and put out their full-strength side.

Meanwhile, Woodbank are hoping to add some silverware to their cabinets when they take on Prestwich in the Walkden Cup final at the Heys ground come Sunday.

It is Prestwich's third final in four years but Woodbank captain Dave Walsh is highly confident: "It went to the last over last time we played Prestwich but we have enough match-winners in our team to win the day.

"We scored 280 against Cheetham Hill on Saturday so our batting is coming together. Nigel Holder is on the top of his game after scoring 92 in the semi-final to get us here and Neil Ridelavoy is superb behind the stumps, together with being a top batsman.

"It's all set up to be a good game of cricket if the weather holds off."

It is the first of a cup final triple header for Prestwich, whose second team also face Woodbank in the Hulme Cup final and the third eleven side have earned themselves a place in the Hodson Cup final, with both games scheduled for August 18.

The Heys side will hope to repeat their victory over Glossop in 2000, bridging a 67-year gap since their last cup success.

Prestwich expect everyone to be fit for the game, which commences at 1pm, with a £2 entry fee (£1 for concessions' and children under 16).

Let the games begin!