A BUMPER crowd of up to 500 partisan supporters is expected for today's clash between Minehead and Watchet at Irnham Road (12.30pm).

Since the clubs found themselves in the same division four years ago their clashes have become an eagerly-awaited feature of the local sporting calendar with the reverse fixture played on Easter Monday.

Form normally counts for little on such occasions but Watchet will fancy their chances following eight straight victories.

The run has seen them emerge as genuine title contenders while Minehead have slipped back after a superb start to the season which saw them top the table in the early stages.

The Blues will no doubt have more than half an eye on Watchet hotshot John Harris who has scored 15 goals in as many games.

Watchet are led by player manager Andrew Woodward who is back at the club after four years at Porlock.

He said: “We are going really well at the moment, thanks to excellent team spirit and good application of the simple things but I don’t think any side can be classed as favourites in a match like this.”

The Red and Blacks have long-term absentees in Lee Nunn and Louis Allen but will otherwise be at full strength.

It was a frustrating day for both teams last Saturday with Minehead losing 2-1 while Watchet’s game at Odd Down reserves was rained off.

Last season’s corresponding fixture at Watchet’s Memorial Ground saw two Minehead players shown red cards after an incident just before half time. However they still held on to win 2-1.