WOOLSTON Rovers defend two proud records this weekend as they bid for a place in this year's BARLA Lancashire Cup final.

Vinny Webb's side are unbeaten in the competition in four years and have not lost at Bennett's Recreation Ground for nearly 18 months.

In-form Wigan St. Patrick's are expected to pose a huge threat to both milestones when they visit tomorrow, Saturday, kick-off 2.30pm.

They have already beaten Rovers once this season in a National Conference clash in September. They are top of the league table, two places above Woolston, although only on points difference.

Webb says: "This is a big game for us. We don't want to see a magnificent trophy leave this club and will do everything we can to win. We want to get to our fifth consecutive final.

"The lads are also proud of their home record and want to fight to keep it.

"St. Pat's are a great team and are improving all the time. They were runners-up to us in the league last year and want to win everything this season. The scene is set for a cracking match.

"This will be the top amateur game of the weekend and it should mean our biggest crowd of the season. We had 1,100 on against the Australian Students and this game will be fireworks compared to that."

Rovers go into tomorrow's clash with two new signings in their 17-man squad.

Former Wire star Paul Williamson makes a return to Bennett's Rec, where he started his career, after a spell with South Wales.

The former threequarter now plays in the second row and is in line for his debut alongside ex-Crosfields full back Russ Parkman.

Parkman has been in talks with Warrington Wolves and was training with them until a few weeks ago.

"These are two top players who will really strengthen our side. I am delighted to have them on board," says Webb.

The Rovers coach admits he and his team are under pressure to produce a top display following their third National Conference League defeat at Leigh Miners Rangers last week. (Match report on Sport 2).

He says: "People keep asking what has happened to Woolston. This is not a Manchester United 'blip'. We are not slipping, our opposition is simply getting better. The competition is stronger than it has ever been.

"Two seasons ago, we won the league after losing just three games. This year, I believe whoever wins the title will lose around six by the end of the campaign.

"Having said that, we have still not had a settled team this year due to injuries. Once all our players are back there should be a lot more stability."

Webb adds: "We have been so successful over the years that the pressure is increasing. No-one wants to be in the first Woolston team which fails. That is a motivation in itself and is why we are striving for more success."

Squad: Parkman, Carter, Taylor, Iddon, Bell, Smith, Ayres, Rylance, Stringer, Foster, Hyde, Harris, Mawdsley, Jude, Williamson, Wallington, Light, Brown.

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