Town and North Village (9.00 p.m., BAA Field) in the first round of the Dudley Eve Trophy might be akin to a blast from Mount St. Helen.

Indeed, plenty of fireworks can be expected as the Red Devils and Hornets face off for the second time in five days, especially considering what went on during the pair's encounter last Tuesday night.

A dominating display of precision soccer by Town served up the first league defeat of the season for Village, and while the former seek to prove it not to be a case of first-time lucky, the latter will be bent on revenge.

Town coach Andrew Bascome revelled in the throes of victory over his former club, as well as having his charges finally fulfil the potential expected of the St. John's Road outfit.

Meanwhile, counterpart Scott Morton afterwards accepted that his team had been beaten by a side that clearly wanted it more, but was confident of Village's ability to bounce back.

The Red Devils have the advantage of several college players returning for the Christmas break, giving the coach options in terms of shuffling the line-up during a potentially hectic Dudley Eve schedule, which could see any of the four clubs involved play five matches in nine days.

Morton has a concern in a defence that was exposed by the absence of centre-back David Thomas, with Town forwards Paul Cann and Darron Simons able to find routes down the middle, scoring three goals between them.

However, Bascome too has worries, with Simons questionable with a twisted ankle.

Paling somewhat in comparison, but no less crucial, is tonight's other affair, featuring reigning champions Devonshire Colts and PHC (7.00 p.m.).

The pair battled to a 1-1 draw during their latest encounter, but Colts rate a slight edge this time around, if only based on the fact that they seem to be able to step up a gear during cup competitions.

Colts also come off an impressive 3-1 beating of Wolves, while PHC have not won in their last three outings, losing twice and drawing the other match.

Injuries may also play a role, with front men Kenny Mills and Stephen Astwood nursing knocks. Coach Sammy Swan may -- like Morton -- be forced to baptise a few of his college students.

Nevertheless, even the losers of tonight's contests will be afforded another crack, with the tournament operating under a double elimination format.

Tonight's victors will face off on Boxing Day for rights to the final, while the losers will likewise be in action the day after Christmas, with a loss then triggering elimination.

Coach Bascome silences the critics, Page 47