FEW teams have been harder hit by the weather in recent weeks than Millom.

Heavy rain and subsequent postponements have put their season on hold, and they haven’t kicked a competitive ball in the last month.

But with a brighter forecast ahead, they will be hoping for a return to action tomorrow.

And supporters who have been starved of football should be able to enjoy a derby day at Hanna Field.

Local rivals Hawcoat Park are the visitors, and the game will be a crucial one between two closely matched sides in West Lancashire League Division One.

Sixth placed Millom are just two points ahead of their rivals, who have played the same number of games so far.

The hosts have waited a long time to get their previous outing, a 5-2 defeat against league leaders Lostock St Gerards, out of their system.

There have been some changes behind the scenes at Millom. Manager Danny Pattinson (33) has decided to focus 100 per cent on playing, with coach Andrew Marshall returning to the club to replace him in the dugout.

“It’s great to be back,” said Marshall, “I’ve had a few months away from football but I have been itching to get involved again.

“Danny’s done a great job but he wants to focus on playing, so this will enable him to do that.”

Marshall, who will be assisted by Ryan Tyson and Mike Brown, said Millom were keen to put recent weather-related postponements behind them.

“It has been a difficult period for the lads,” he admitted. “We don’t have an artificial surface which made it difficult to train at times due to the rain.

“We have used facilities at Barrow, and we’ve managed to put some extra sessions on because the players are ready to play football and are very enthusiastic, which is great.”

Marshall is excited about the prospect of a derby match between the two neighbouring sides on Saturday.

“There’s a lot at stake,” he said. “Both teams will be wanting to finish the highest in the area in the league table.

“We know what we’re capable of as a team and want to do as well as we possibly can.

“We can’t wait to get started again.”

Marshall (31) has focused on coaching since his own playing career was curtailed by injury six years ago.

The PE teacher added: “I really enjoy coaching. I think we have a good set-up at the club.

“Danny can focus on playing and he will continue to be a good experienced voice within the dressing room.”