for the first round of the Shell/Umbro Cup this evening (8.00), they will enter as decided underdogs.

They will also likely be subjected to howls of abuse from a partisan crowd anxious to see their side triumph over invited foes.

It has been more than four years since Bermuda graced the international soccer circuit on the senior level, the last time occurring back in 1992 when they were eliminated from the World Cup in the first round, placing bottom of a four-team group containing El Salvador, Canada and today's opponents, Jamaica.

During that round robin series Bermuda held Jamaica to a 1-1 draw at home, while losing the return leg 3-2 in Kingston, falling to a 73rd minute penalty winner after having clawed back from an earlier two goal deficit.

At that time the Caribbean nation distinguished themselves as a better drilled outfit, while Bermuda made up most of the deficit with determination and skill.

And while Jamaica have remained active and apparently grown stronger since then, shaping themselves as the the most feared side in the region, Bermuda have wallowed in the throes of a drug scandal and years of inactivity on the national front.

This year has seen a perceived `righting of the ship', with former English and NASL professional Clyde Best taken on as the new national coach, with immediate predecessor Gary Darrell assisting.

Six weeks' preparation may not be viewed as ideal, nor might the fact that Bermuda have not been tested in any form of friendly beforehand. But Best yesterday stated that he had no reservations about going in `blind'.

"Not really, if you can play soccer you can make adjustments,'' said Best, speaking from the Sutton Place Hotel where the Bermuda squad are staying. "I just hope the players are feeling like I'm feeling, that if you play hard and you play tough you will get results.

"Fear no man, even if it is Jamaica.'' Still unknown last night was Bermuda's line-up, with the team to be chosen today.

As for tactics, Best would not go into details, although he intimated the opening moments to be critical, especially playing in hostile territory.

"I want workers in the first 20 minutes,'' he said. "I'm looking for people to go out there, knowing the importance of playing hard and shutting people down.'' Recent results during qualifying for next year's World Cup show Jamaica as a considerable obstacle.

They topped Group Three of the CONCACAF region, which also included Mexico, Honduras and St. Vincent, qualifying for the final round with a 4-1-1 record.

Their only loss came in Mexico back in October, while they won all three home matches downing Honduras 3-0, bashing St.Vincent 5-0 and edging past Mexico 1-0.

Originally slated to face Puerto Rico and Cayman Islands as well, Bermuda will now tackle the Jamaicans twice following the withdrawal of the other pair from the competition.

Following tonight's affair Bermuda will suit up again on Sunday for a 1.00 p.m. clash against their hosts.