Paul Scope insists Hogges remain committed to improving the standard of local football and believes vast strides have been made this season, despite their lowly league position.

Hogges jet off to the United States today for their campaign curtain call against Real Maryland Monarchs with a victory guaranteeing their highest ever points haul.

Although a first away win of the season would still not lift Hogges off the foot of the league table, Scope reckons there have been shafts of light to pierce some of the gloom that has cast over Hogges' third year in professional soccer.

In terms of tangible signs of improvement, Hogges have won more home games and conceded 11 fewer goals than last season when they came second from bottom, although yet again they have suffered misery on the road.

And Scope yesterday shed some light on just why their away form has compared so unfavourably with their performances at the National Sports Centre (NSC), where they have beaten powerhouses Richmond Kickers and Harrisburg City Islanders.

"Every game we've lost at home has been by the odd goal," the club co-owner said.

"There's no doubt we're competitive at home and we've beaten some of the league's top teams – that certainly points to progress.

"But then there's been such a massive contrast between our home and away form which has prevented us building any momentum.

"Home field advantage is a big one but there are other explanations as to why we've struggled overseas.

"We're probably travelling a lot more than other teams and sometimes without our better players through work commitments.

"Often our weakest team is facing their strongest team. It's important everyone understands the reason behind the contrasts."

In recent weeks there has been worrying talk Hogges may struggle to survive the credit-crunch and could be in danger of folding due to loss of sponsorship.

Scope, however, has moved to allay such fears and is confident the Island's only pro outfit will return for another season.

"There's an extremely good chance Hogges will be back next season," said Scope. "I'd be very surprised if we're not. There's never any guarantee and we will need to raise the money again, which I think we can.

"Our expenses are under a lot more control than in previous seasons and before we ever folded our tent there would have to be a lot of options exhausted, I can promise you."

He added: "One of the challenges we've faced this year is having to cut back on expenses as our sponsorship has been reduced. But the players have rallied around and have been paid a lot less this season.

"They've made sacrifices and have believed in the future of the Hogges."

Hogges head to Maryland with a depleted squad with defensive lynchpins Kevin Richards, Omar Shakir both unable travel, while Seion Darrell (college commitments) and Keston Lewis (foot injury) will also miss the trip.

Coach Kyle Lightbourne is expected to be named as a substitute to provide defensive cover for tomorrow's game at the Richard Montgomery High School.