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Do or die weekend for ISL contenders

There will be added incentive for teams to win their remaining fixtures this weekend as the Island Soccer League (ISL) reaches its climax at the National Sports Centre (NSC).

With both the Red and Blue Division champions yet to be decided, every team except Arsenal have a chance to advance to the play-offs with all sides playing their final two matches of the regular season today and tomorrow.

Among those vying for a play-off berth are defending champions Kings who, along with the Union, are atop of the Red Division with three wins and a solitary loss under their belts entering their showdown tomorrow.

Kings coach Marvin Belboda noted that the season had reached a crucial stage, and any team could still come out on top of the pile in their respective division.

"We are taking our schedule now one game at a time," said Belboda.

"You could even say we are cautious as we have lost to them (Union) already this season. I told my players we are going to throw everything at them. If we get this win it will take a lot of pressure of us, and give us the bye into the first round of the play-offs.

"The play-offs are a one-off game. But we must allow ourselves to go in with a good chance. We are the defending champions and if we don't get a result this weekend our season will be over, so it is very important.

"Our season has been up and down . . . but we will dig deep and work hard."

In the Blue Division, a log jam at the top sees all four teams ¿ Storm, Titans, Apex and Knights ¿ with the same record of two wins and two losses, a situtation that pleases Storm coach Andrew Bascome.

Bascome's men have every chance to claim a play-off berth with all sides locked on identical records, and two matches remaining.

Knowing what is needed and having destiny in your own hands is a scenario that Bascome will be drilling into his players' thoughts as they prepare for what lies ahead.

"The weekend will be crucial to all teams in our division as we are all tight in the standings," said Bascome. "Some of our biggest problems this season have been allowing teams to get back in a match when we are in the lead.

"But I guess that is the way the game is designed to be. Everything needs to be in place to be successful, including the defensive aspects of the game.

"As far as I am concerned, I would like to play the first round of the play-offs. My team need to continue to play together so we can gel together and all that stuff.

"We had started our training process a little later than others so we will benefit from the games and, if necessary, playing the maximum amount of games to win the title.

"It doesn't matter who we play, but my main focus is my team and what needs to be done to get the results."

The opening match of the weekend kicks off at 10 a.m. today, with Sunday's action beginning at 1 p.m.