NORTHWICH won't - unfortunately - make a financial killing from their Twickenham appearance.
Still, glory and history should come first.
But the 10am kick-off means a 5am start for fans and the schedule has probably deterred many uncommitted Northwich people, who would otherwise be keen to support the occasion, from travelling.
There are four consecutive EDF finals all included in the price of a ticket and the crowd will build up during the day for the Leicester Tigers-Ospreys EDF Cup final at 2.30pm.
Also playing are Penzance & Newlyn (Cornish Pirates) v Exeter Chiefs in the EDF Trophy (12.30pm) and Dunstablians v Mounts Bay in the Intermediate Cup (5pm).
Northwich admit they would prefer the 12.30pm start.
'But we'd rather be first than last - the 5pm start would mean a long wait for players,' said vice-chairman Trevor Rawling.
There will only be about 1,500 inside the ground when Northwich host - they flipped a coin for who should be the 'home' team and Northwich won - their opponents Bradford Salem.
The Moss Farm outfit can count on at least 600 fans, including a bus being run jointly by Northwich and Barnton cricket clubs.
Their own coaches leave Moss Farm at 5am and further details are available from Ian Finn on 01606 871636 or Dave Johnson on 01606 872070.
Being the home side means occupying the England dressing room and also changing colours. Northwich will wear new change shirts of gold, sponsored by Tarmac and Weatherseal.
While the Vase is not a money-spinner, both finalists pick up £2,000 regardless of the result. They keep 10% of their own ticket sales, possibly worth another £2,000, but success now could have spin-offs with greater sponsorship next season.
