West Herts will be seeking their ninth Watford Observer Fourteen14 Shield triumph this evening when they meet Leverstock Green A in the final at Chipperfield Clarendon.

The Herts League Division One leaders, who last won the trophy in 2013, are making a record 15th appearance in the final after overcoming Northchurch by 32 runs in the semi-final.

Standing in their way are a Green side who will be aiming to win the trophy for the first time, having lost out in their only previous final appearance in 2012.

The Stags’ semi-final victory on Thursday owed much to a fine century opening-wicket stand between Will Jones and Damon Kerr.

Jones hit seven fours and two maximums en route to making 62 off 41 deliveries, while his opening partner carried his bat for an undefeated 67 from 47 balls and struck six fours and two sixes.

The pair’s efforts enabled West Herts to post 145-2 from their 14, eight-ball overs.

In reply, Northchurch lost Tom Vila (4) with just five runs on the board, but then Shane Wineti and Tom Garraway set about pushing on before the former fell for 28.

Garraway went on to make 41 but he lacked support further down the order as Matt Smith (2-29) and Ryan Woosley (2-36) took two wickets apiece, while Jones (1-15) proved the most difficult bowler to score off in his three overs.

Following tonight’s final, attention switches to the conclusion of the Plate tournament tomorrow when holders Watford Grammar School for Boys will bid to win the trophy for a fourth time in five years against Bushey at Met Police Bushey’s Aldenham Road ground.

Play in both finals is due to get under way at 6.15pm and spectators are welcome.