Matt Allen yesterday ruled out any possibility of Northampton hitting the wall as their marathon season enters its punishing closing stages.

The club can lift the two most prestigious knock-out trophies English clubs compete for - the Heineken Cup and Tetley's Bitter Cup - this month.

Today at Twickenham, holders Wasps will contest their third successive domestic final, having beaten Newcastle last year, 12 months after Michael Lynagh and Philippe Sella embarrassed them in a 48-18 Saracens romp.

Northampton reached Twickenham nine years ago - losing to Harlequins after extra-time - but only England forward Tim Rodber and wing Harvey Thorneycroft still remain. If Northampton are going to unlock the Wasps defence then Welsh international Allan Bateman, is their most likely code-breaker. However Northampton's rugby director John Steele will not unveil his starting line-up until just before kick-off.

Wing Craig Moir (knee) and lock Jon Phillips (hamstring) have been the week's main fitness concerns. If Scottish international Moir misses out then 31year-old Thorneycroft will take over, having made Northampton's 25-man squad with Jon Sleightholme sidelined. Grayson could oust Ali Hepher from the outhalf role.