It all comes down to a single Sunday afternoon for Dandy Town ...
While it would appear that the Hornets traversed their most challenging hurdle a week ago when they defeated Devonshire Colts to move into sole possession of the Premier Division, danger still lurks around the corner.
Over-confidence has ruined many a title dream, and despite having to face a Southampton Rangers team already relegated, Town coach Andrew Bascome has spent the week with pins and needles in anticipation of what he hopes will be the crowning glory of his first season at the St. John's Road club.
"It's the jinx team,'' Bascome was heard to say immediately following last Sunday's triumph, already installing the anti-complacency guard.
However, what Bascome was referring to appears very much misplaced, with Town having slaughtered the South Shore squad 6-2 during their last league meeting at St. John's Field.
Certainly, if one looks at results and standings, the only jinx perpetrated by Rangers during this campaign has been directed squarely upon themselves.
In boxing, it might be said that Rangers have a `punchers' chance, but they have appeared punched out since the early rounds and we now stand late in the 12th.
Expect the champagne to flow freely come five o'clock tomorrow as Town celebrate the spoils of battle.
North Village, who actually occupied the top spot for a longer period than any team during the season and would dearly love to trade all the early success for greater position today, like Rangers, have only prayer as their weapon.
They also have the issue of beating a pesky PHC crew for the second time in five days if they are to have any chance at all of overtaking Town.
The Red Devils must win and have Town suffer defeat if they are to prosper, but even the most ardent supporters will hold out little hope.
Colts, smitten at the final hurdle once again, still hold a mathematical chance, needing a big win over Wolves combined with a large loss by Town and a draw or loss on the part of Village.
The remaining top flight match has Somerset and Devonshire Cougars battling to avoid falling into a play-off spot, where the seventh placed Premier Division team takes on the second placed First Division team in a two-leg affair. The winner seizes the right to play in the Premier Division next season.
Ireland Rangers hold the inside track to the play-offs in the lower division, but will be severely tested when they face Somerset Eagles at White Hill Field.
Eagles, currently fourth, can overtake Rangers with a win, as can third placed St. David's, who face a dicey away encounter against Prospect.
Already promoted St. George's can go through the motions against Hamilton Parish at the east end.
The other match sees Social Club entertaining Paget at Bernard Park.
The females draw to a close with a double-header at St. John's Field, Royals and Rude Girls clashing in the opener, followed by Dandy Stars and PHC.
Andrew Bascome: Looking to claim the championship in his first season as Dandy Town coach.
