by Martin Morgan

Last updated at 12:35, Wednesday, 23 May 2012

Dave Bowden is hoping for a Cumbrian takeover of Championship One this term – to help the traditional county rivals cash in next season at the higher level.

Dave Bowden

Barrow Raiders went top on Sunday after they beat London Skolars and Workington Town hammered previous pacesetters Doncaster at Derwent Park, while Whitehaven consolidated a top-four place by winning at Oldham.

And Town chairman Bowden is looking for all three county clubs to earn promotion, as increased derby income can help swell the coffers in a highly-competitive 14-team Championship in 2013.

“It’s very early but we now have three Cumbrian clubs in the top four and you would hope it remains that way,” he said.

“You can see the difference in derby gates. The derbies were becoming a bit of a damp squib but because of the competitive element you’ll get bigger derby crowds. We need all three Cumbrian clubs in the Championship next year.”

The bumper attendance of 1,808 at Craven Park for Workington Town’s narrow defeat at Barrow last week was an indication of the potential to attract big derby crowds this term with the three county rivals battling it out at the top of the table.

“We got our biggest away support for a long-long time at Barrow, it was really noticeable,” Bowden added.

“It was almost back to the atmosphere in the 90s, and there were a few faces I hadn’t seen for a while.

“The team appreciated it, and the fans appreciated their effort. The response from our fans was fantastic.”

Haven’s only four-figure gate this term came against Town, 1,529 turning out for their Good Friday clash, and another healthy turnout is expected for Barrow’s visit this weekend.

First published at 11:30, Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk