The West End captain leads his side out for their opener at home to Accrington on Sunday full of confidence, with his sights set high.

The House welcome back four of their leading amateurs fully fit and available for the season, after limited appearances in 2007.

And they welcome Ribblesdale League record-breaking batsman Will Driver and team-mate Matt Doughty from Read to strengthen the side further.

Australian professional Brendan Drew is also on board and ready for the off, having flown in from Down Under yesterday, so Finch is all set to rekindle the success of 2004 and 2005.

He said: "Having Chris Bleazard fully fit will be a big factor, Johnny Russell is back from injury and both Chris Benbow and Stuart Grant are committed for the full season, so we've more than a quarter of the team back.

"Will Driver and Matt Doughty will also be a big boost to the side. Matt will probably serve his apprenticeship in the seconds to start off with, such is the competition for places, but Will will be there from the off.

"As long as people don't expect too much from him straight away, he'll be okay. There's no pressure on him from us, as we know exactly what he's capable of, Lowerhouse is a club he knows well and I'm sure he'll soon be up and running."

Sunday's opponents have, in recent years, been the perennial whipping boys of the league, but Finch expects far more from the side this year.

"Accrington will be interesting as they've got Graham Lloyd back and Jimmy Hayhurst from Haslingden. It will be a tough game.

"The wickets aren't how players like them to be at this time of the year. Preparations could have been better, as we've had all of our friendlies rained off, but I've got to back the ability and belief in the side to do well.

"If we get a good start, then I've got to back our amateurs for a comprehensive victory."

The professional will also play a big part, and Finch hopes he'll be with them for the full season.

He added: "Drew comes with a lot of positive things said about him by our ex-professionals, and those at the club who have tracked him.

"We're lucky this year with the strength of the amateurs that we won't be as reliant on the professional as some teams, but we will still be looking to him to win two or three games single-handed."

And their Worsley Cup game against Colne on Sunday, May 18th is a priority.

"Colne is another funny one as they've lost quite a few players. It'll comes down to the strength of our bowling attack, and I'm quite confident of putting up a cup run this year. I'm looking forward to the cup."

Finch has his favourite grounds and fixtures too, but in the end nothing compares to a good day down at the House.

"Playing at Nelson, where I spent my junior career, is good and Ramsbottom has seen us have some decent battles on a nice ground.

"It's always good going to Burnley and getting one over them on their own ground too, but if we can get the ball rolling and the fans through the gate, then there is no better place than the House on a sunny afternoon!"

Lowerhouse entertain Accrington on Sunday, wickets pitched at 1-15 p.m.