STANTHORPE cricketers are hoping the rain does not come between them and their matches this weekend, which will see Souths take on Valleys and RSL go head to head with Wanderers.

Valleys captain Damian Anderson predicted Saturday's clash with table toppers Souths at CF White Oval would be a close one.

"I think it is going to be a tough close game," he said.

"Both teams will be missing some of their younger players for Schoolies Week.

"But we do have some of our senior players returning this week which should take the pressure of t

However Anderson said he had not set a margin for the win.

"A win by one or a win by 100 will be the same thing for us," he said.

Souths captain Ben Staley said while they would be slightly undermanned they were still confident they could come up with a win.

"It is going to be a very tough game," he said.

"Valleys have some great young players and some talented seniors who are back this season."

Staley said he just hoped the rain cleared by Saturday.

"The pitch is always in good nick so the rain shouldn't affect it too much."

RSL will take on Wanderers at Sheahan Oval from 12.30pm on Saturday.