SNAKES are hoping to console themselves for missing out on the Mid Cheshire Super League title by winning the cup.

They take on Rangers, who finished fourth in Division Three, in the Mike Johns Memorial Handicap Knockout at Lostock Sports and Social Club on Monday.

It marks a first appearance in the showpiece for the top-flight side, who edged out Valiants in a semi-final encounter.

Mike Perks was their star turn, prevailing in head-to-heads with Alan Lenton, Keith O’Brien and Nigel Spratt to help his side to a 5-3 victory.

Rangers edged a thrilling encounter with Victoria, denying their higher-ranked opponents a chance to claim a league and cup double.

Five of the singles matches went the distance, and three of those went the way of the underdogs.

Warren Atkinson held his nerve to edge out Keith Mitchell, who was later pipped 22-20 by Dave Mairs in a decider.

However the Victoria man had shown his mettle earlier to overturn a 10-point handicap deficit in another three-setter with John Mullin.

Mairs won two of his three rubbers to help Rangers record a memorable 5-3 win.