Such was the case with reigning First division champions Vasco.

The Portuguese club entered the 1996-97 season as the resident bullies -- then won their first five matches by a combined score of 16-4.

But success seemed to tarnish their work ethic and willingness to do the little things needed for continued prosperity. Victory parties were replaced by post-game shouting matches and coach John Rebello openly questioned the desire of his squad, as did veteran Sammy Swan.

Now, heading into Sunday's match against Southampton Rangers, Vasco seem to have rediscovered their mystical aura and confident swagger.

Wednesday night witnessed a return to their dominance. Playing previously hot PHC in the Friendship Shield, Vasco showed no respect for the Zebras' top-rated defence, shredding them for four unanswered scores and showing their youthful counterparts who was boss.

"We just went back to the basics,'' said Rebello, who said he questioned even his own desire and commitment during the past few weeks.

"We had to humble ourselves. Recently we've analysed the situation and came to see how silly all the bickering was and that we just needed to get back to the basics that got us success in the first place.

"I thought that the house we had built in the last four years we had destroyed. (Wednesday) we showed character, we built the first wall of our new house, Sunday we'll build the second.

Of course the Rangers have other ideas.

Southampton have likewise hit a rough patch, losing two straight league matches, as well as bowing out of the Friendship Trophy, after opening the season on a high notes.

Add to that the fact that their best player, Janeiro Tucker, has been hobbled by an ankle injury and the outlook worsens.

The pair meet at Southampton Oval, with places in the Dudley Eve Trophy at stake.

In other games, PHC get a chance to put themselves closer into contention for a spot in the holiday tournament, while First Division leaders Dandy Town look to stretch their lead atop the standings.

However, once again the Zebras will have to do without play-maker Kenny Mills, who will miss his second straight match due to a fractured jaw suffered during a bike accident.

Mills was still in hospital yesterday nursing an injury sustained when he was apparently struck by a cycle driven by a player involved in this year's World Rugby Classic.

His absence was evident during Wednesday's loss to Vasco, with the attack lacking ideas and constantly bogging down.

Town have no such problems, with the twin strike tandem of Carlos Smith and Darron Simons sure to test the mettle of PHC's youthful back four.

Another intriguing tie has third-place North Village entertaining Boulevard and no doubt seeking revenge following Monday's loss to the Blazers in the Martonmere Cup final.

At St. David's, the Islanders host Devonshire Colts in what should be a low scoring affair, while St. George's welcome Devonshire Cougars to Wellington Oval.