FURNESS attempt to reach the Cumbria League Cup final this weekend as the season approaches its climax, writes JASON MEADOWS .

Theirs is one of only two fixtures being played with south Cumbrian interest tomorrow, with Ambleside travelling to St Benedict’s A in the other.

FURNESS v COCKERMOUTH

(Strawberry Grounds, 3pm)

THE Blues seek immediate revenge over a Cockermouth side who beat them in the league last week.

Furness will be looking to up their game to reach another final in a competition which has been kind to them of late.

With players returning, the Strawberry Grounds outfit have a chance.

Tom Brannon plays his first game of the season, teaming up in the centres with Sam Attard in a formidable partnership.

Furness will be hopeful last week’s try-scorer, Scott Hadwin, is good to go along with Aaron Pike, whose work offshore means he is not certain to play.

Hooker Cameron McClure will be glad to see his front row bolstered with the returns of Paul Dean and Leon Sweet.

There could also be the return of Tadhg Butler to the second row after injury, with the big, rangy forward looking to dominate the set-piece.

Martin Ward is back and, with his strong running game, somebody needs to be on his shoulder from the off.

That man will be Rhys Studt, who can score from anywhere as he goes in pursuit of points.

Influential skipper Joe Mallinson has led his troops from the front all season and the Blues will hope main men Corne Els and Steve Perry will be available to turn the game.

Jordan Ashton will look for a shout at scrum half and James Tyson and Marc Ashton are also available as Furness put a top side out in their pursuit of silverware.

ST BENEDICT’S A V AMBLESIDE

AMBLESIDE face a tough trip to Cumbria League Two champions St Benedict’s in their last game of the season.

It has been a great season for the Galava Park side as they look to progress to bigger things.

With improvement to the clubhouse taking place and a new drainage system for the pitch, the club are going in the right direction.

It is business as usual for the pack tomorrow, with an unchanged line-up of Steve Bragg, Gregg Stephenson and Paul Aires up front.

Control of the loose ball will be key and the back row of Dave Clarke, Rory Seeking and Greg Manchino will need to be on top form.

Skipper Paul Longster will control things from the second row with new partner Andrew Clayton.

This season’s revelation Keenan Longster will be the main link man and will be looking for clean possession to get the back line away.

Stand-off Matthew Middlemiss returns from a broken arm as a big bonus.

Wide men Tim Horsfall and Rory Townsend have been worth their weight in gold and will finish any opportunity.