IT may not be Liverpool v Everton, or Saints against Wigan, but for rugby union enthusiasts in the borough and beyond Saturday’s clash between Liverpool St Helens and West Park carries just the same significance, if not more.

The sides shared the honours two years ago, winning one game each, in a season where West Park were promoted to North One West and Liverpool St Helens finished fourth. After fighting hard all last season the Red Rocks outfit eventually fell into the final relegation spot by the close to set up this season’s derby.

This season in South Lancashire/Cheshire 1 the sides fortunes have differed with LSH winning five out of six and West Park two out of six.

However, in the time honoured tradition of pundits commenting ahead of such games, LSH President Ray French has not let us down.

“It’s a local derby, anything can happen, form can count for nothing,” he said.

“We look forward to welcoming our neighbours from across the East Lancs Road, will get our biggest crowd of the season and hope to see an exciting game of rugby.”

LSH still have one or two injury issues but, as all season, field a side with a nice blend of youth and experience with the likes of Matty Johnston, Sam Ward, Paddy Royle and Alex McBride all benefiting from the presence of Darren Wilson, Phil Kearns, Mark Potter and Matt Cunliffe.

Kick off at Moss Lane is 3pm.