LACROSSE: Hitchin s captain Steve McDermott is delighted with his side s impressive start to the season. The defending South of England League Premier Division champs have won all four of their opening fixtures and sit pretty at the summit as they try and

LACROSSE: Hitchin's captain Steve McDermott is delighted with his side's impressive start to the season.

The defending South of England League Premier Division champs have won all four of their opening fixtures and sit pretty at the summit as they try and defend their first domestic crown.

But McDermott knows the first big test lies in wait this weekend as the Lucas Lane club clash with third-place Hampstead, last season's Southern Flags winners.

Hampstead have played a game less than Hitchin and so can level on points if they win that extra game.

However, McDermott knows a victory over their arch rivals would give his side a welcome advantage, even at this early stage in the season.

"We're all looking forward to the game," said McDermott, who saw his side edge Hampstead 12-9 and 11-9 last season. "It's a big game for both clubs, but if we play like we have been doing we know we can win.