Last season the First Division promotion race proved to be extremely tight with St.David?s securing the second spot on the final day of the campaign at the Den to go up with champions Paget.

And with the likes of St.George?s Colts, Devonshire Colts and rejuvenated Wolves expected to again be among the hunt for the two automatic promotion spots and Shield honours, competition this season among the First Division ranks should be no less intriguing.

Even X Roads United or former powerhouse Social Club could spring a surprise or two and make a serious challenge for promotion ? particularly the latter who profited big-time during the off-season.

Bluebirds have bolstered their ranks by acquiring North Village duo Quincy Paynter and Gary Augustus and Hamilton Parish defender Jamel Dill.

Southampton Rangers, who fell five points shy of promotion last campaign, lost the services of several key players during the off-season and are not really likely to compete for top honours this time around under new coach Brian (Bulla) Anderson.

Relegated Ireland Rangers have also lost two valuable players in McLee and Shakir Smith who have both joined Dandy Town.

And despite having son of the soil Kenny Thompson return to Somerset Eagles, his presence failed to lure new or previous players to the embattled club.

Devonshire Colts also suffered a heavy exodus of players, but were relieved to have veteran striker Aljame Zuill return after spending two successful seasons at Devonshire Cougars.

FA Cup specialists Hamilton Parish could again prove to be a handful in this particular competition, although team stalwart Aaron Lugo hopes the Hot Peppers will make a better account of themselves in league play.

First Division action kicks off tomorrow with a full slate of matches scheduled across the Island.

X Roads and Devonshire Colts are pitted together at Garrison Field in the day?s top fixture, while the contest involving Wolves and Prospect United at the Den also looks inviting on paper.

The new-look Social Club should overpower Southampton Rangers at Bernard Park and St.George?s Colts should likewise find easy pickings against Somerset Eagles at White Hill Field.

Elsewhere, Hamilton Parish are home to Ireland Rangers at Lords in a match that could either way.