An outstanding, unbeaten streak in the first half of the Premier Division season has earned Dandy Town footballers a date with Barbados' national team.

The Hornets, who will enjoy the Christmas break atop the league standings, will oppose the visitors on Sunday, December 28, in the second of three matches which the Bajans play here.

“We're happy to say Dandy Town Hornets have accepted our invitation. The decision bodes well for Dandy Town who are enjoying a fine run at the top of the Premier Division.

“We look forward to them representing their club, the community and generally football in Bermuda at a very high standing,” said Bermuda Football Association General Secretary David Sabir yesterday, adding that such opportunities would continue to be spread among local clubs.

Town have 17 points from seven league matches and remain the only team without a loss in the championship race with five wins and two draws. They also boast a handsome goal difference of plus-11 with 16 goals scored as opposed to five goals surrendered by Jason Smith.

Their victories so far are: 1-0 over Somerset Eagles; 4-0 against Devonshire Colts; 2-1 over North Village and Southampton Rangers and 5-1 last Sunday against Hamilton Parish. Only Boulevard Blazers and Devonshire Cougars have been able to hold Town to 1-1 draws.

“We are pleasantly surprised to get the call-up. We feel it's warranted from being in the position that we are at the half-way point,” said Town's coach Devarr Boyles.

“We haven't played anyone of international calibre since our last foray into the CONCACAF competition so it obviously gives us an opportunity to gauge ourselves.

“This is an exciting opportunity and we're still looking forward to it. But, if I had another season (as coach), I think we would be more prepared.

“The Barbadians are totally unknown (to us). I guess with the national team playing first that provides us with a window to preview our opponents.”

Still, Boyles noted, Town had to be careful as they could be lulled into a false sense of security if the match was not of a high quality. On the other hand, if it is a high-quality affair “you could be awestruck”.

“We're going to try to increase our intensity and improve some facets of our game from the local level and hopefully we can play on somewhat of an international level,” added the coach.

The fact that some Town players were also likely to be in the national team that faces Barbados on December 26 could be a useful advantage.

Their selection to the senior squad, their coach observed, was also a shot in the arm for Dandy Town's programme.

“It's always a blessing to be picked for the national team. It shows me as well as them that they are viewed as quality players - in both my and Mr. (Kenny) Thompson's opinions.”

Regarding his team's success since the October start of the league, Boyles indicated several factors, ranging from club (Western Stars Sports Club) to team unity.

“What's happening at St. John's Road is that we are now a club that's operating in harmony and in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust and you can get a lot done.

“For example, the president's presence at matches and the message that he sends which is similar to what I say. At youth level it's the same thing - we're all thinking the same way.

“From that you can build confidence and confidence can grow. It's passed on from president to players and from players to even the fans.”

In practice and matches, the coaching staff stress what each player's role is and seek to ensure they comply with directions from the bench.

“Most players try to comply. If there isn't a compliance then they get subbed. It's straightforward,” said Boyles.

Town, he pointed out, had achieved greater consistency in their performances and that was showing in their results this season.

“There are fewer peaks and valleys and more of a plateau now. We're seeing a more consistent team as opposed to highs and lows like last year.”

One Town player displaying remarkable consistency at present is striker Khano Smith. The 22-year-old is on a hot streak, netting seven goals in the last five matches after being shut out in the first two games - two each against North Village and Hamilton Parish.

He has been voted Man-of-the-Match on four occasions this season.