Holy Crosstopus looks forward to the weekend

Following on from the soccer World Cup that came to a whimpering stop in South Africa at the weekend past, Paul the psychic octopus has retired back to his German Sea Life Centre home.

Therefore, we have enlisted the less expensive and somewhat less psychic Holy Crosstopus to predict this weekend's results for the 3 XIs.

Saturday 17th July -

1sts vs Carlton 2nds (A);
Both teams will be keen to get back to action following a week off due to the rain in a valiant attempt to move away from their 'mid-table mediocrity' placings. The two sides last met at Arbo back in May, with Saturday's hosts winning on a muddy wicket by 52 runs.

Crosstopus Prediction: Can the Carlton wicket hold up with the prospect of the Masterton T20 Final on Friday? If so, a tough batting paddock and a tight game on the cards.

2nds vs Falkland 3rds (H);
The 2's take to the Field of Dreams in this Division 5 clash which, in the corresponding fixture in May, saw Falkland scrape through by only 26 runs.

Crosstopus Prediction: On my home patch, Aqua-Arbo may prove to be too tricky for the Fifers.

3rds vs Musselburgh 3rds (H, Campbell Park):
Playing in the rain offers no fear for the Mighty 3s. After last week's demolition of Smellies 3s at Inverleith, anything above a monsoon will offer ideal conditions.

Crosstopus Prediction: Lady Broonster to make exceedingly good cakes.