THERE is due to be a Barnsley derby tomorrow between Athersley Rec and Dearne and District after Wombwell Town visit Horbury Town tonight in a top-of-the table clash.

Dearne, newly-promoted to Division One for this season, visit Sheerien Park for the first time. They are fourth, a place and a point clear of Athersley.

Rec manager Paul Clarkson said: “It’s a massive local derby. Dearne are coming to us, an established NCEL side, and they will have a point to prove. We all know each other.

“Dearne have players I have managed in Sunday League.

“They are a good club with a decent budget. It’s our toughest test this season.

“We’ve both had good starts. It should be a good game in front of a big crowd.”

Dearne manager Zeph Thomas added; “It’s a big game and a bit of a derby. It will be a big occasion for both teams.

“The aim is to go there and win and I think we have the players to do it.”

Thomas – who is from Bradford but has lived in South Yorkshire since being a junior at Rotherham United – replaced Jason Blunt earlier this month and took up his first managerial role.

“It’s been good so far. We have had some decent results in the league.

“It’s been a good settling in period and the lads seem to be on board.

“Getting this job is a massive privilege for myself. I live in Goldthorpe, a five-minute walk from the ground.

“I have seen what the club has done for the community and the success it has had. I want to grow with the club.

“This year is all about the lads getting the experience of the league and seeing how high we can finish. Quite a few players have never played at this level.

“If they learn quickly, we have a great chance of finishing in the play-offs and doing something special.”