LEIGH RMI take a break from league action with two vital cup games in the space of four days. On Saturday they entertain Conference side Southport in the FA Trophy, but first they have to travel to Altrincham tonight in the President's Cup.

There is a semi final place waiting for the winners of this second round tie that has already been postponed twice, and could be in doubt again due to the poor state of the Moss Lane pitch.

But that hasn't handicapped the Robins, who are flying high at the top of the Unibond Premiership after a poor start to the season, and they will provide a stern test for RMI who are unbeaten in seven games. "It is a prestigious competition and a good result will put us in good heart for Southport at the weekend," said boss Steve Waywell. "We also play them in the league in a couple of weeks, so a win would give us a psychological boost as well."

Saturday's man of the match at Frickley, Ian Monk, is Waywell's only doubt, but he has Steve Pickford returning from suspension and Martin James back from holiday.

Waywell added: "I would like to run with the same settled side and make as few changes as possible, because it is an important part of the season for us."

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