HEAVY rain has placed tonight's NWCL Division One Atherton derby between LR and Colls in doubt. There will be a lunchtime inspection of the Crilly Park pitch.

The two sides could hardly be so closely matched sitting just below midway in the table both on 27 points but LR having played three games less than their big rivals.

Colls hope to welcome back three players who missed their last outing a 2-0 defeat at Glossop North End striker Ian Gibson, utility man Liam Carr and defender Adam Lawrence.

Ramsbottom United's home clash with bottom of the table Flixton will also be subject to a noon assessment of the playing surface. The Rams have been boosted by the return to the club of centre back Mike Smith from Unibond Division One outfit Rossendale United. Flixton, although still six points adrift at the bottom of the table, have won their last two games since popular team boss Dalton Steele returned to take over the managerial reins.