ease in earlier rounds, Police tomorrow face a more serious challenge when they meet Western Stars in the Central Counties final at Police Field in a 50 overs game, starting at 11.00 a.m.

Missing from the Police attack will be opening bowler Freston Hurdle, absent because of work commitments, but Police remain confident they can successfully defend the trophy.

Medium pace bowler Richard Austin, one of many who have responded positively following the loss of several regulars from last season, reckons that their accomplishments so far are cause for optimism.

"Overall this season we have been very encouraged by our performances, especially when you consider the big losses in personnel we had at the start with the departure of Roger Blades, Dwayne Leverock and Stevie Lightbourne,'' said Austin.

"On the batting side, in particular, two individuals who have really lifted their overall performances are Daniel Reece and Andrew Rollins. Quite often they have helped us make decent scores. And another boost has been the fine wicketkeeping of Rollins.'' Among the bowlers, seamer Rohan Moore, who joined Police from the Commercial Division, is their top wicket-taker while Austin, skipper Dennis Archer, Tyrone Smith and spinner Peter Philpott have all grabbed valuable wickets.

"Although we still have a pretty good line-up of capable bowlers we realise that our opponents are capable of reaching a formidable score if we allow them to,'' added Austin.

"Looking back to last year we managed to score a comfortable victory over Stars, but we are not about to take anything for granted this time around even though they are coming off a loss to St. George's.'' In last year's final, Police defeated Stars by five wickets with skipper Archer blasting 59 and Philpott taking three for 20. Gregory Sampson led Stars in batting with 53. Scores: Western Stars 182-9; Police 183-5.