club teams for domestic matches this weekend.

The Bermuda Football Association made the decision after being in consultation with national team coach Gary Darrell and his staff who reportedly voiced little concern either way.

In a two-page press release last night, the BFA said that it was important to keep the team together as a unit until their total commitment in the World Cup concludes on December 6 with their final second-round qualifier against Canada at the National Stadium.

"The Association is fully aware of its commitment to the players, and our affiliates, but more importantly, we are aware of our responsibility to the sport, and the country as a whole; especially the thousands who have so wonderfully supported the team and the Association,'' read the release.

"The Association is cognizant of its responsibility. Thus we must be seen to be putting the same emphasis, and showing the same dedication and commitment, in respect to the last game, as we did the previous nine.

"The final game against Canada is just as important, in terms of our preparation, and resolve to complete what we started as the opening game against Haiti last April.'' The BFA have taken this stand after president Charlie Marshall hinted on the team's return from Canada early this week that consideration would be given to having the players made available for club play. Darrell also said he had no qualms about them going back to their respective teams.

BFA administrative assistant Joe Brown, who signed the release, confided that while it was no secret that certain clubs were anxious to have the services of their players, none had in fact made a formal request.

"No club asked for anyone to be released, but there were a few who inquired about the status of the players after the national team returned home, which is why we looked into the matter right away,'' said Brown.

Injuries and a lack of form have been the main reasons why some clubs have shown a keenness to have their players back, but it looks as though the waiting game will linger on for them.

If the BFA's decision was to allow everybody to play the three players who play professionally in England -- skipper Meshach Wade, Shawn Goater and Kentoine Jennings -- would still not have been able to play with their local clubs.

Brown said that they would each have been ineligible to turn out in domestic soccer because they are currently registered only in the English league.

"While they are eligible to play for their country, they are not allowed to play with any club teams here,'' said Brown.

However, the situation regarding David Bascome and Kyle Lightbourne is different since neither are under contract right now. Bascome was recently under contract with the Harrisburg Heat while Lightbourne is expected to sign on professionally with Scarborough.

A tortuous battle looms for FA Cup champions PHC as they were yesterday drawn at home against Boulevard for the first round to be held January 10. The match is a rematch of the 1991 final when Boulevard beat the Zebras after a replay to clinch the league and cup double.

Two all First Division clashes are set with Martonmere Cup champions Somerset traveling to Wellington Oval to face St. George's.

For Vasco, who advanced to this round on account of a 5-0 win over Island Rangers in midweek, the draw has been kind. They face First Division strugglers St. David's and a victory by them would not be a total shock.

Meanwhile, Second Division leaders Southampton Rangers are away to Devonshire Colts in what shapes up as another interesting match-up.

Remaining games see Hotels entertaining Port Royal, North Village hosting Wolves, Dandy Town meeting Devonshire Cougars at Devonshire Rec., and Somerset Eagles at Hamilton Parish.