ASTWOOD BANK batsman Andy Clayton is promising an all-out assault on the glory road to Lord's this Sunday.

Former finalists Astwood take on Nottinghamshire outfit Plumtree (2.30pm) in a bid to make the quarter-finals of the prestigious National Knockout Cup competition.

And Clayton says the team is in buoyant mood following their victory over Northamptonshire counterparts Rushton to make the last 16.

Astwood's fine form was quickly followed up last weekend as they cruised to a four-wicket Worcestershire County League Division Two victory over Romsley & Hunnington.

The win, sparked by Sam Churchley's unbeaten 79 and Jon Summers' magic with the ball (4-60), has opened up a realistic shot at the league and cup double this season.

And upbeat Clayton said: "Things look really good times for us at the moment. Our confidence is good now after winning four games on the trot."

Astwood lost to Troon in the inaugural Village Knockout final at the home of cricket Lord's in 1972 - and they're high hopes they could return.

"We're getting a lot of interest again because we're doing so well," added Clayton. "We're taking two coach loads of supporters to Nottingham with us and everyone is hoping we can make another Lord's final.

"For some reason, we hadn't been in the competition for some 20 years. This year, it was actually my brother who entered us - and we're all delighted the way things are going!"

But Clayton also promises that all focus will be given to Astwood's home league encounter with Stourport this Saturday (2pm) before the players start dreaming of stepping out at Lord's.

l Astwood Bank Seconds' Andy Alexander knocked a possible club record 201no during their winning draw with Romsley & Hunnington. Astwood made 360-4dec with their opponents making 150-7 in reply.