opening matches in the Martonmere Cup, which has traditionally signalled the start of a new season.

While the Charity Cup features the league and FA Cup champions from the previous season, it is the Martonmere Cup where the real competition begins as the top six teams from last season start along the road to places in the November 11 final at the National Stadium.

Last season, Somerset and PHC reached the final and while the defending champions will not see action until the second round next Thursday, the Zebras open their 1993-94 season with a match against Boulevard in the 7.00 opener.

The 9.00 clash sees North Village taking on Dandy Town. Devonshire Colts are the sixth team in the competition.

Boulevard got their new season off to a good start with a 2-1 win over the Trojans on Saturday night in the Charity Cup, and though some changes are going on at PHC they can never be taken lightly.

Coach Alfie Eve confirmed yesterday that the likes of Anthony Stovell, who has returned from Paget, Kevin Dill, Sheridan (Baldy) Ming and goalkeeper Ty Williams will miss the first couple of weeks of the season, robbing them of valuable experience. Stovell has a groin injury while Dill has only just started to train after a long cricket season with PHC.

"To a great extent it's going to be a confidence-building process,'' said coach Eve, returning to replace Jack Castle who has moved on to Second Division Wolves.

"Some (youngsters) will be experiencing the big time for the first time.

Obviously, the experienced people like Mike Dill and Sammy Swan are tried and tested. The onus will be on people like Mike, Blake and Nelson (Simons) and Sammy to keep us going and we will be looking to them to lead the youngsters.'' Meanwhile, a full slate of matches are on tap for Sunday when the league season begins.

Champions Somerset are at home to Dandy Town while Boulevard host Devonshire Colts at St. David's. North Village are at home at Bernard Park to the Zebras.

Promoted Vasco and Southampton Rangers play east-end opponents in their opening matches. Vasco are at home at PHC Stadium to St. David's, who were only just confirmed as the 10th First Division team, while Rangers travel to Wellington Oval to meet St. George's Colts.

The four Second Division matches see Hamilton Parish taking on Prospect at Wellington Oval, Somerset Eagles hosting Devonshire Cougars at White Hill, Wolves playing BAA at Devonshire Rec. and Social Club meeting Port Royal at PHC Stadium.

The opening round of Friendship Trophy and Second Division Shield matches are scheduled for November 23. The draw will take place today.