IT is derby day in the Bolton Association on Saturday, and leaders Walshaw are determined not to let title rivals Elton knock them off their perch.

Led by Mikey Watt, Walshaw have stormed to the summit by winning seven of their eight matches – tieing the other.

But Elton have also been in good form and a victory at Leigh Lane would put them firmly back in the race for the championship.

It all points to an entertaining tussle, and Watt believes it is the beginning of a crucial month for the men from Sycamore Road.

“We will play Elton, Atherton and Flixton in the next few weeks and, if we can come out on top in those matches, we could end up 10 or 15 points clear at the top of the table,” said 22-year-old Watt, who is in his second season as captain.

“We have had a great start to the season but we know we will be made to fight all the way.

“I am sure Elton will want to beat us and they are a good side who are capable of upsetting us.

“Their pro, Toby Bulcock, is a top player and John Ashworth can take any team apart if he gets it right.”

Watt believes Walshaw are well equipped to challenge for honours, and cites the hard work of his predecessor Rob Faulkner, among others, as the reason for the club’s continuing success.

Having won the league five times during the noughties, they are still one of the teams to beat in the Association.

“There is only one person in the first team who did not come through the junior ranks, and that is down to the hard work of people like Rob,” said Watt.

“A lot of those are big players in the league now. Nick Murphy, my vice-captain, opens the batting and bowling, while Gavin Nichol has scored more than 400 runs already this season.

“Darron Foy is back at the club this season and he has scored 250 runs and taken 25 wickets so he has been a great addition to the team too.

“Throw in the contribution of the pro, David Bowden, who has taken 35 wickets, and we have a pretty decent side.”

Watt is enjoying being the man in charge, after taking up the reins from Rob Faulkner, and he is desperate to land some silverware sooner rather than later.

“Being captain is tough but I get a lot of support from Nick, Rob and Darron,” he said. “I suppose I am fairly young in the role but it is something I enjoy and I hope I can lead the club to some trophies.”