ATHERTON captain Paul Walsh reckons “winning ugly” could be the key to success as his side bid for their first title since 1990.

His men travel to second-placed side Flixton tomorrow for a clash which could go a long way towards deciding the outcome of what has become a two-horse race for the championship.

The 30-year-old skipper is also enjoying a fine run of form batting at number five with one of his best averages so far – 38 – since returning to the club as captain following a four-year run in the role in his early 20s.

While Walsh respects big-hitting Flixton for their spectacular batting exploits, the captain is happy for the Higham Park men to be a little less flamboyant about their business.

“There is certainly a contrast in styles between the two sides,” he said.

“Flixton have got into the routine of scoring big – putting 300 on the board and putting the opposition under pressure to chase their target.

“We have gone about things quietly, and we have won a lot of close matches we could have lost. We have learned to win ugly.”

Key men for Atherton – a club which have no professional – have been the two overseas amateurs, West Indian left-arm spinner Jamar Griffith and Australian left-handed all-rounder Jimmy Damjanovski.

But Walsh is keen to stress that while the duo have been hugely influential in developing a winning mentality within the club, the other nine players have delivered performances when needed to get the victories.

“Everyone gives 100 per cent commitment, and the attitude of the players has been outstanding,” he said.

“We’ve taken each game as it comes, but we have gone out to win, while at the same time enjoying our cricket, and it has paid off.

“Jimmy and Jamar have been great for us, but the other nine lads have also stepped up to the plate.

“But they have helped instil a winning mentality, because there have been plenty of games when they’ve got us in good positions, but we’ve been carried over the line by the other lads.”

The title is not the only trophy Walsh’s men are vying for, with the Cross Cup final against holders Elton at Darcy Lever’s Hacken Lane ground falling victim to Sunday’s rain.

Elton had reached 82-3 after 32 overs before the weather struck and it will be replayed on August 18.

Meanwhile, third-placed Adlington entertain Daisy Hill hoping to add to their 10 wins so far this season.

They are under pressure from fourth-placed Edgworth who travel to fourth-bottom rivals Astley and Tyldesley.