fans to rally behind his squad of youngsters who he believes could become the first to qualify for the World Cup at any level.

The Island's under-17 team take a first step towards that goal this week when they meet St.Vincent in a two-leg preliminary round match on Wednesday and Friday night at Somerset.

The agreement to have both legs played in Bermuda, admitted Best, was a big advantage, particularly if the fans turn out in force.

"It's a great opportunity for our kids. I am hoping that they will go out there and play to their potential and win, but they are going to need a lot of help from the fans,'' said Best.

"In soccer one can't predict what the players are going to react like on the field of play, but looking at their recent results in practice matches we have done well by beating a Dandy Town squad on Sunday (2-1) and drawing with a Somerset Trojans squad on Friday night.

"So if that is anything to go by, I am hoping that they do themselves and the country proud against St. Vincent.'' Best is also calling for locals to be more positive when supporting the national teams.

During his short period as technical director, the coach said he had noticed that fans demanded too much of the players, especially at youth level, and said criticism was often too severe.

"I want to ask the fans to be patient with them and remember that we are talking about young players this time. We are not going to see any Maradonas or Peles out there. I hope the fans just show up and give the boys a chance to display their talents. Cheer for them, not root against them.'' Unless the under-17s get this kind of positive support, then the hard work the players have put in might prove futile, warned Best.

"We also have to realise that this is a huge two-match series for Bermuda soccer since it will probably be the best opportunity ever that any of our teams will have to advance to the World Cup proper,'' he said.

"We are just four of five games away from qualifying. To the whole of Bermuda I say let's get behind the boys and try to make the game a real success.'' This week's winners will travel to Trinidad and Tobago to compete with five other countries in the final qualifying round during the first week of December.

COOLIN' OUT -- When the wind isn't blowing the only thing left to do is enjoy the sunshine as Bermuda's Paula Lewin (left) and her all-female crew demonstrated during yesterday's ultra calm conditions in Hamilton Harbour.

Gold Cup racing was eventually called off for the day and will resume this morning for Group One competitors.