IF MARSHFIELD or Goatacre’s National Village Cup runs are destined to end at Lord’s, they’ll have to go through each other to get there.

The duo progressed to the last 16 of the national rounds last Sunday and have been placed on collision course, with Goatacre set to host their near neighbours on July 12, with a quarter-final spot on the line.

Marshfield, who ply their trade in the Wiltshire Division of the West of England Premier League, bested Oxfordshire outfit Cumnor at Broadleys last weekend and captain James Williams doesn’t think a derby clash against higher-level opposition should hold any fears.

“Some of our guys have gone to watch Goatacre play in the latter stages in the past. They’ve done well in the competition and it’s something to get excited about,” said Williams.

“I guess you’re excited and disappointed in equal measure that they got through as well.

“They like to play a brand of cricket that’s similar to the one that we try to play as well. They’re dangerous because they’ve got players who have scored runs at Prem Two level.

“I think the difference in levels won’t matter so much and it’s going to be about whoever copes with the pressure on the day.”

Premier Two Goatacre hammered Somerset & Avon section champions Wembdon at the weekend and captain Ed Wilkins is anticipating a local clash to savour.

“It’s going to be a really big game and we’re looking forward to it,” he said. “Would I prefer to be playing someone that we don’t know and don’t get on with so well? – I don’t know.

“Marshfield are a good bunch and we know them well. It’s definitely going to be a competitive game. If you win this one, then you’re into the last eight and you’re one step closer, so it’s a massive one for us.”