Cup football clash with Antigua -- unless 100 more fans book seats.

The booking deadline runs out at noon after being extended at the 11th hour.

Last night organisers were hopeful of a late surge of interest to reach their goal.

It would also "save'' the hundreds of dollars pumped into promoting the trip.

"I'm an incredible optimist and still believe we can do it,'' said organiser Mr. William Madeiros.

"The team have done so well it would be great if they could get local support.'' He added: "Realistically, however, people will have to act pretty smartly if the trip is to take off.'' Around 70 fans have so far booked to see their team take on Antigua in Sunday's vital World Cup qualifying match.

Originally a 300-seat L1011 aircraft was chartered for the four-day trip.

But anxious organisers had to scout around for a smaller plane after not enough fans came forward.

They eventually secured a DC8 -- and set themselves a target of 170 passengers.

The $600 trip includes the return airfare, match tickets, transportation, and an eve-of-game knees-up at a local hotel.

Several hotel packages are available, starting from $270, which covers three nights accommodation.

Champagne corks would also be popped during the Friday flight to put fans into a party mood.

In addition, special T-shirts would be handed out to identify Bermuda supporters.

As well as Mr. Madeiros, Mr. Larry Mussenden, and Mr. David Burch are behind the venture.

The three soccer fans teamed up to form Creative Associates to get their idea off the ground.

"We all thought it was an exciting thing to do with the team doing so well,'' said Mr. Madeiros.

"Initially hundreds of people phoned up saying they were interested, but not all booked.

"The main problem, I think, was that they did not have enough notice to make all the arrangements.'' Mr. Madeiros, however, refused to be disappointed by the response so far.

"I'm hopeful a local contingent will be out there cheering,'' he said.

Should the trip be called off, a full refund is promised to all who bought tickets.

Cancellation would also leave the three organisers slightly out of pocket.

Said Mr. Madeiros: "We've paid out a bit for printing and advertising and other bits and pieces, but we wouldn't lose a lot.'' Mr. Madeiros, who hopes to make the flight himself, said the cost of chartering the plane would be met from ticket sales.

Flights can be booked at Colonial Insurance. For further details contact Mr.

Madeiros or Mr. Burch on 238-0476 or 236-9978.